Residual flexural behavior of fiber reinforced concrete after heating

In this study, the effects of fire on the flexural performance and residual strength of plain and fiber reinforced concrete are investigated. Three types of concrete are tested: plain, polypropylene (PFRC) and steel fiber reinforced concrete (SFRC). Prior to the flexural test, the specimens were exposed to fire for 15, 30, 45, and 60 min on a furnace. The burnt specimens were then tested under flexural load to measure their toughness and residual strength. Results indicate the reduction of flexural strength for both plain and FRC after being subjected to fire. For FRC, the effect of fire on the flexural response depends mainly on the fiber type and fire exposure duration. For PFRC, the flexural strength is found to drop significantly for every exposure duration, while toughness is found to increase at short exposure duration and then, drop quickly after long exposure duration due to the fiber evaporation effect. For SFRC, the flexural strength and toughness are found to drop gradually for every exposure duration due to the deterioration of cement paste and reduction in bond strength. SFRC exhibits a more consistent ability to maintain load carrying capacity after long exposure to fire than PFRC.