Understanding the basic behaviors of concrete is essential for civil engineering students to become civil engineering professionals [1].
1.2 Concrete Background
1.2.1 Concrete Microstructure
Concrete has become a universal building material because of its versatility and economy. It is comprised of three phases which include the aggregate, hydrated cement paste , and the interfacial transition zone (ITZ) [2].
Concrete is economical due to locally available aggregates that are used for concrete production. Physical aggregate properties that affect concrete properties include gradation, shape, texture, and density [1]. the mixing of fine and coarse aggregates, cement, water and the admixture is mixed to produced concrete.
Aggregates are known to be particles of rock or equivalent come in all shapes, sizes, and strengths which when fetched together in an unbound or bound situation form part of the whole of an engineering building structure, both of fine and coarse Aggregates take volume about 65-75% of concrete and are important ingredients in concrete production.
1.2.2 Advantages of concrete
A concrete has a lot of advantages, such …show more content…
1.4 Classification of lightweight concretes
Thus, the lightweight concrete can be classifying to:
Lightweight aggregate concrete, foamed or gas concrete, and no-fines concrete.
1.5 Classification of aggregate
1.5.1 Classify aggregate Depending on their sources as:
1.5.1.1 Natural
Natural aggregates are obtained from quarries by processing crushed rocks or from riverbeds.
1.5.1.2 Artificial,
Artificial aggregates are obtained from industrial by-products such as blast furnace slag.
1.5.2 Classify aggregate depending on their unit weight as: Lightweight aggregates, normal weight aggregates, And heavyweight aggregates. The lightweight aggregate concrete (LWAC) has its roots in the ancient period ca. 3000 years before the Christian Era. And its aggregates whose maximum dry loose bulk density is about 880kg/m3 for course aggregates