Non-destructive assessment of heat-damaged concrete

Abstract

The damage assessment of concrete exposed to different temperatures has been essential to ensure structural safety and residual behavior. High temperatures have significantly weaken the integrity of concrete, which may have lead to partial or complete failure of concrete elements under loading conditions, posing safety risks. To investigate the extent of damage caused by high temperatures, an experimental study has been conducted involving visual inspection and non-destructive testing. Concrete cubes have been exposed to elevated temperatures under steady-state heating conditions, and the UPV test has been performed after they have been completely cooled to ambient conditions. Based on the test findings, a temperature-dependent relationship has been established for UPV velocity and transit time. The test results have indicated that cubes exposed to elevated temperatures exhibit a significant reduction in UPV values compared to unexposed cubes, with the extent of damage having increased with temperature. Developed temperature-dependent equations have aided in determining the quality of concrete after exposure to various temperature ranges. This study has aided in understanding the degree of damage at elevated temperatures.