Autogenous shrinkage of high performance concrete: a review

Autogenous shrinkage is a major concern in early age cracking of high performance concrete (HPC). Low water-to-binder ratio and incorporation of supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) can remarkably affect the pore structure, relative humidity, self-stress, degree of hydration, and interface structure; hence, increase the shrinkage in the matrix. In this paper, the mechanism of autogenous shrinkage of HPC and influential factors in its development are discussed. In general, autogenous shrinkage is more pronounced in HPC, albeit, using low heat cement, fly ash, shrinkage reducing agents, lightweight aggregates, and fibers can effectively reduce it. The effects of SCMs on autogenous shrinkage, relationship between different types of shrinkage and autogenous shrinkage as well as the effect of internal curing on autogenous shrinkage need to be further studied