Experimental investigation on the compressive strength and shrinkage of concrete with pre-wetted lightweight aggregates

Experimental studies are presented on the influence of three types of pre-wetted lightweight aggregates (PLWA), through their volume fractions and moisture content, on the compressive strength and shrinkage of concrete and expansive concrete. Via integrated thermal analysis, the hydration degree during 7 d-28 d was found to be increased by the internal curing. The use of PLWA increased the shrinkage at 240 d due to the significant increase in the shrinkage deformation during the age of 28 d-90 d caused by internal curing. The results also suggest that incorporation of 10-Mas. % expansive agent is useful to diminish the shrinkage, especially by its combined use with PLWA. Predictive models for the compressive strength and shrinkage of concrete containing PLWA were discussed and a unified model predicting the compressive strength and shrinkage of concrete containing PLWA was suggested.