Abstract
Expanded polystyrene (EPS) concrete is a lightweight, low strength material with good energy-absorbing characteristics. However, due to the light weight of EPS beads and their hydrophobic surface, EPS concrete is prone to segregation during casting, which results in poor workability and lower strength. In this study, a premix method similar to the ‘sand-wrapping’ technique was utilized to make EPS concrete. Its mechanical properties were investigated as well. The research showed that EPS concrete with a density of 800–1800 kg/m 3 and a compressive strength of 10–25 MPa can be made by partially replacing coarse and fine aggregate by EPS beads. Fine silica fume greatly improved the bond between the EPS beads and cement paste and increased the compressive strength of EPS concrete. In addition, adding steel fiber significantly improved the drying shrinkage.
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