Abstract: The mechanical, deformation and thermophysical properties of hydraulic concretes with three different aggregates and damengineering mix ratios were tested. The results revealed that given equivalent strength, the deformation and thermophysical properties of concrete with different aggregates were different. Limestone concrete has the highest tensile strength, lower drying shrinkage and good thermophysical properties. Moreover, limestone is the first choice among artificial aggregates owing to its good grain shape, low water absorption, and moderate intensity which means can be easily processed. Dolomite aggregate is also ideal, but basalt concrete is unfavorable for the volume stability of dam concrete because it has large elastic modulus, big deformation and poor thermophysical properties. The conclusions provide guidance for the mix design and reasonable selection of aggregate for hydraulic concrete.

Key words: aggregate variety, hydraulic concrete, strength level, drying shrinkage, thermo physical parameters