New approach for shrinkage prediction of high-strength lightweight aggregate concrete

The use of saturated lightweight aggregates (LWAs) on concrete provides an efficient internal curing, resulting in reduced shrinkage. Codes predict concrete shrinkage based on concrete strength, type of cement, geometry and curing conditions, being mixture design parameters neglected. Herein, an experimental study is presented, considering several high-strength lightweight aggregate concrete (HSLWAC) mixtures with different densities and compressive strengths. Compared to codes prediction, significantly lower shrinkage values were measured. It was concluded that, besides the parameters considered by codes, HSLWAC shrinkage also depends on the type, dosage and moisture of LWA. A new approach for shrinkage prediction of HSLWAC is presented.

► Lightweight aggregate concrete (LWAC).
► Mixture design.
► Mechanical properties.
► Time dependent behaviour.
► Concrete-to-LWAC interfaces.