Residual Strength of Ultra-High Performance Concrete After Exposure to Elevated Temperatures

Authors

Brian T. BurkeFollow

Date of Completion

5-4-2011

Embargo Period

3-30-2011

Advisors

Adam Zofka; Ramesh Malla

Field of Study

Civil Engineering

Degree

Master of Science

Open Access

Open Access

Abstract

This paper presents the results of a study on the effect of elevated temperatures on the compressive strength of ultra-high-performance fiber-reinforced concrete (UHPFRC). Two different mixtures of a commercially available UHPFRC were considered in this study. The standard mixture offered by the manufacturer incorporates only steel-fibers to improve the tensile properties of the concrete. The enhanced mixture, which is of primary focus in the study, incorporates additional polypropylene fibers to improve the fire-resistance behavior. Specimens from each mixture were cast into 76 mm (3 in.) diameter cylinders and 51 mm (2 in.) cubes. After exposure to elevated temperatures ranging from 200 to 600^oC (392 to 1112^oF) and for durations ranging from 5 minutes to 6 hours, the residual compressive strength was measured. The fire-resistant mixture exhibited no explosive spalling during heating but demonstrated reduced compressive strength at temperatures over 200^oC (392^oF). Durations greater than one hour had little effect on the residual compressive strength of the cylinders. Unlike the cylinders, the residual strength of the cubes was affected by the heating duration. The standard mixture exhibited explosive spalling at oven temperatures above 250^oC (482^oF) which demonstrates that incorporation of polypropylene fibers prevents the occurrence of explosive spalling in UHPFRC at temperatures up to 600^oC.

Recommended Citation

Burke, Brian T., "Residual Strength of Ultra-High Performance Concrete After Exposure to Elevated Temperatures" (2011). Master's Theses. 44.
https://digitalcommons.lib.uconn.edu/gs_theses/44

Major Advisor

Michael Accorsi