Abstract: A process is disclosed for forming lightweight aggregate pellets having a density of less than about 60 lbs./ft..sup.2. The first step of the process is to form an admixture which includes fly ash, cement and filler. By weight percent of the admixture formed, the admixture includes greater than 60% fly ash, 1-25% cement and 1-10% filler. Water and a chemical accelerator are added to the admixture in a pelletizing device. By weight percent of the aggregate formed, about 1 to 18% water is added and between about 0 and 3% chemical accelerator is added by weight of the cement used in the admixture. The aggregate pellets are then removed from the pelletizing device and cured with an oxygen containing gas, such as air, at a temperature of less than about 300.degree. F.

Abstract: A light-weight aggregate, for use in production of light-weight structural products, composed of a self-hardening fly ash, a surfactant foam, and optionally an accelerator and additives. The self-hardening fly ash is preferably class C fly ash formed by the combustion of sub-bituminous coal from the Power River Basin. The surfactant foam is preferably an anionic sulfate surfactant foam. The accelerator is preferably an extract of silica fume dust. The additives may include magnesium and boron compounds, other fly ashes, light-weight fillers, polymers, cement and magnesium silicate and like materials.