Residual Flexural Strength of NSC, HSC and LWC Panels Exposed to High Temperatures

Abstract

This work aims at studying the post–heating behavior of normal strength concrete (NSC), high strength concrete (HSC), and lightweight concrete (LWC) slabs and assessing the residual flexural strength of two-way slab specimens. Eleven reduced scales reinforced concrete slab specimens divided into three main groups representing the NSC, HSC, and LWC types of corresponding cube compressive strengths of 50, 94, and 37 N/mm² respectively, are prepared in the laboratory. Residual flexural strength, load–deflection curves, crack patterns, failure characteristics and details, and effects of temperature level exposure are all recorded, investigated, and discussed. Effects of concrete type when slabs are exposed to different temperature levels are also discussed. Results indicate a reduction of strength with exposure to high temperatures. Residual flexural strength percentages at maximum temperature exposure (700˚C) are 44.5%, 38.7%, and 45.5% for NSC, HSC, and LWC slabs, respectively.