Lightweight expanded clay aggregate (LECA) or expanded clay (exclay) is a light weight aggregate made by heating clay to around 1,200 °C (2,190 °F) in a rotary kiln. The yielding gases expand the clay by thousands of small bubbles forming during heating producing a honeycomb structure. These spaces allow nutrients to be taken up by the pellet and released to the plant gradually. They also allow oxygen to reach the roots of the plants. This is of paramount importance in hydroponics. LECA has an approximately round or potato shape due to circular movement in the kiln.

Leca is the world leader in horticultural, agricultural & hydroponic substrates.

Intact Granules

• Higher insulation (more closed pores)
• Better drainage (bigger gaps between granules)

Fragmented Granules

• Better moisture retention (more open pores)
• Better soil aeration (promotes healthy bacterias)
• Increases root biomass (sharp edges split and induce exponential root development)

Features

• PH neutral
• Stable & durable
• Anti-fungal
• Resistant to insects

*Bulky items