Evaluation of the fire-exposed temperature of concrete

Abstract

The fire-exposed temperature of concrete directly determines the degree of microstructural damage experienced and the performance of the concrete. Thus, it is important to assess the fire-exposed temperature accurately. In this study, an experimental formula linking ultrasonic velocity and fire-exposed temperature is established on the basis of experimental analysis. Moreover, five methods for evaluating the fire-exposed temperature of concrete structures are developed. A reliable and accurate evaluation of the fire-exposed temperature is gained through the utilisation of a temperature–time curve, appearance characteristics, microstructure characteristics, ultrasonic velocity and differential scanning calorimetry analysis. Finally, the application of the research work to an assessment of a fire-damaged concrete structure is described.