Static and Cyclic Behavior of Structural Lightweight Concrete at Cryogenic Temperatures

Experimental research conducted at the University of California at Berkeley indicated that plain and prestressed/reinforced lightweight concrete behaved favorably under both static and cyclic loading conditions at cryogenic temperatures. This research indicated: (1) that the mechanical properties of lightweight concrete are significantly affected by moisture content, but not significantly by relatively high-intensity cyclic fatigue, (2) that one-way prestressed concrete specimens subjected to cyclic axial tension and compression as well as cryogenic thermal shock exhibited only minor degradation, and (3) that two-way prestressed concrete specimens subjected to cyclic membrane shear and also to cryogenic thermal shock exhibited only minor surface cracking and reductions in flexural stiffness. These results indicate that prestressed/reinforced high-strength lightweight concrete exhibits excellent cryogenic properties, and may qualify as a material for use as a secondary barrier for offshore liquefied gas containment vessels.