Microhardness and Mechanical Behavior of the Expanded Shale Concrete

Abstract The morphology of the interfacial zone between cement paste and expanded shale grains was investigated by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The microhardness of the interfacial zone close to the dry or wet expanded shale aggregate surface was measured. Further compressive and flexural strength as well as elastic modulus of the concrete with dry or wet expanded shale were determined respectively.