Spalling of concrete structural walls exposed to fire

Abstract

Spalling of concrete subject to fire is one of the most detrimental effects causing damage to concrete members during or after a fire event by decreasing the residual mechanical properties of the element. Spalling is known as a form of material instability. It is more prevalent for High Strength Concrete (HSC) compared to Normal Strength Concrete (NSC) due to its dense microstructure. The spalling of HSC concrete is generally ignored by the standards and the fire-resistance has been calculated using the rules specified for NSC. In this paper, after a brief discussion on the status of research, general observations and latest developments related to spalling of concrete are summarised. A case..