3.2. Production
The mixing of materials was done in a specific sequence; firstly
a part of water with superplasticizer were poured into the mixer,
then dry EPS beads added and thoroughly mixed for about 2 min
to get wetted with water and plasticizer. After that the remaining
materials were poured to the mixer and the remaining water was gradually added while the mixing was in progress. To obtain a uniform
mixture and well distribution of EPS beads, the mixing was
continued and then the slump and fresh densities was measured
(Fig. 1). Proper specimens for designated experimental program
including cubes, beams and cylinders were casted and wet cured
for 24 h. Finally, the specimens demolded and stored in standard
basin until the time of testing. It should be noted that the slump
for all the concretes controlled to be between 50 and 70 mm.