According to Costa et al. [28] when compared to normal weight
concrete, different studies proved that shrinkage in lightweight
aggregate concretes (LWA) is usually lower. This happens when
saturated LWA are used, since an efficient internal curing is promoted
by an uninterrupted hydration of the binding paste, as a result
of a continuous flow of LWA moisture stored in its alveolar
internal structure, avoiding self-desiccation This gives rise to expansive autogenous deformations and thus to reduced total
shrinkage. Also improved transition zone between the LWA and
the binding matrix is observed, reducing its permeability [28].
In this study, it was concerned with the effect of MEPS aggregate
on shrinkage and TC properties of concrete. Because of this
reason MEPS aggregate was used as a coarse aggregate in production
of concrete for possible application of low-strength concrete
such as masonry units and semi-structural purposes.