Impact of Fire Extinguishing Techniques On Concrete Performance

Abstract

The incidence of fire unfortunately occurs quite frequently in buildings. In some cases it causes collapse of the whole structure. Many researches focused on investigation of the effect of fire on concrete strength. Others focused on the effect of concrete constituents on the fire resistance. Our main aim in this study is to try to find the ideal method for extinguishing fire, with minimum damage on concrete performance. (Concrete will be subjected to fire in different cases and different variables).The test program in this study focused on the effect of economical methods of extinguishing on the performance of concrete. The parameters considered in this study were: Effect of time on concrete under fire (1 hour, 2 hours and 3 hours). Impact of fire on concrete mixed with admixtures (super plasticizers, air entraining, and set retarders). Effect of using different methods of extinguishing the fire,(air cooling, cold water, hot cooling, cement paste) on physical and mechanical properties of concrete performance. The study also considered investigation of the effect of fire on concrete with different types of cement (ordinary Portland cement and Sulphate resistant cement. It was noted that Schmidt hammer presents an effective tool in preliminary assessment of buildings for fire fighters. The use of Ultra sonic pulse velocity was also successful in evaluation of the degree of damage in concrete.