In the last years the use of cellular concretes has been extended, due to the rise in the ratio strength/weight reached, as well as the development of new cementitious raw materials, foaming agents and fillers for specific applications of cellular concrete. However, the knowhow of this form of lightweight concrete is still under construction. This article presents a complete review with the main aspects that influence the application of cellular concrete: raw materials, production methods and expected properties based on density. The aim of this review is to show how the use of new and alternative raw materials for cellular concrete could permit modifications on the physical and mechanical properties for construction applications. The difficulties found in the industrial production of foamed concrete in processes like mixing, transporting and pumping needs to be solved for enhancing the potential of foamed concrete as a structural construction material. © 2018 Elsevier Ltd