MATERIAL CHARACTERISTICS OF MASONRY AND CONCRETE SUBJECTED TO FIRE

Abstract

Cement- concrete is one of the most extensively used building construction materials the world over. Its strength, rigidity, durability, moldability and economic viability are the strong points in favour of its popular use for all types of civil constructions. Among the many types of well identified loadings such as self weight, live load and wind/earthquake loads, concrete structures could also be required to withstand fire- induced high temperature loadings. Although, actual fire- induced loadings have not been identified in quantitative terms till now, it is pertinent to understand and ascertain the damaging effects of fire on material such as steel, concrete, brick masonry and timber. In the present study, attempts have been made to understand and assess the extent of damage caused to concrete and brick masonry by fires of different intensities and durations.