STUDY ON COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH BEHAVIOUR OF NORMAL

CONCRTE AND SCC SUBJECTED TO ELEVATED TEMPERATURE

ABSTRACT

Cement concrete is a complex mixture of different materials, for which the

properties may alter in different environmental conditions. The behaviour of concrete
in fire depends on its mix proportions and constituents. The principle effects
observed in the concrete due to elevated temperatures are loss in compressive
strength, loss in weight (or) mass, change in colour and spalling of concrete. Due to
these changes there is a great need of study in this region. The objective of this
limited study was to provide an overview of the effects of elevated temperature on
the behaviour of concrete. In meeting this objective, the effects of elevated
temperature on the properties of normal concrete and self compacting concrete
materials are summarized. The compressive strength was determined at different
temperatures, thus providing scope of determining loss/gain in strength. In addition,
modes of cooling, variation in different grades of concrete were studied. As the fire
affected concrete cannot undergo destructive in practical situations, Non-destructive
testing (NDT) methods, i.e., Rebound hammer test were also adopted and the
results were co-related.

Key Words: Fire, cooling, NDT, Rebound hammer.

1.0 INTRODUCTION

Fire causes significant personal, capital and production loss in most countries of
the world each year. Hence, the provision of appropriate fire safety measures for
structural members is a major requirement in building design. Concrete is widely
used as structural material in building construction where fire resistance is one of
the key considerations in design. Concrete is a non homogenous material whose fire
performance is controlled by its constituent materials such as aggregate, cement
paste and other ingredients. Over the last three decades, there have been significant
research and development activity in concrete technology and this has led to
improved concrete mixes known as High performance concrete. These HPC mixes
include High Strength concrete (HSC), Self Compacting Concrete (SCC), Fibre
Reinforced Concrete (FRC) and Fly ash Concrete (FAC) which offer Superior
strength, durability and cost advantages. High strength concrete has a compressive
strength generally greater than 40Mpa. High Strength concrete is made by lowering
the water cement ratio to as low as 0.3 due to which the strength, modulus of
elasticity of the concrete increases. The ingredients of high strength concrete are the
same as those used in conventional concrete with the addition of one or two
admixtures, both chemical and mineral.
High Strength Concrete results in reduction in member size, hence sufficient and
consequent reduction in foundation cost. There is a significant reduction in the
formwork and the time required for stripping forms. The creep and shrinkage are
low and there is a higher resistance to crack propagation and chemical attack etc.
Self Compacting Concrete (SCC) is a form of high performance concrete which
flow to a virtually uniform level under the influence of gravity without segregation,
during which it de-aerates and completely fills the form work and the spaces
between the reinforcement, without any need for induced compactions. SCC is
obtained by limiting the water-cement ratio and adding effective plasticizers,
increasing sand-aggregate ratio and adding some viscosity enhancing admixtures.
The behaviour of concrete in fire depends on its mix proportions and
constituents and is determined by complex physicochemical transformations during
heating. Normal strength concrete and high performance concrete micro structure
follows similar trends when heated, but ultra high strength concrete behaves
differently. A key property unique to concrete amongst structural materials is
transient creep. Any structural analysis of heated concrete that ignores transient
creep will yield erroneous results, particularly for columns exposed to fire. Failure of
structural concrete in fire varies according to the nature of the fire; the loading
system and the type of structure. Failure could occur from the loss of bending or
tensile strength; loss of bond strength; loss of shear or torsion strength; loss of
compressive strength: and spalling of the concrete. The structural element should,
therefore, be designed to full fill its separating and/or load-bearing function without
failure for the required period of time in a given fire scenario. The prediction of
spalling-hitherto an imprecise empirical exercise is now becoming possible with the
development of thermo-hydro mechanical nonlinear finite element models capable of
predicting pore pressure.
The risk of explosive spalling in fire increases with decrease in concrete
permeability and could be eliminated by the appropriate inclusion of polypropylene
fibres in the mix
and/or by protecting the exposed concrete surface with a thermal barrier. There are
three methods of assessment of fire resistance: (a)fire testing (b)prescriptive
methods, which are rigid: and (c)performance-based method, which are flexible.

1.1Fire
In the world of construction, fire is definitely a danger that has to be prevented and
fought by all possible means. Although the probability is low, fire may occur
anywhere, in any season and in any phase in the lifetime of a building. With
reference to the cementitious materials, their behaviour in direct tension at high
temperatures is still a challenge and the test results available in the literatures are
scanty indeed. Due to elevated temperatures, the effects in concrete are
1) spalling of concrete
2) loss of compressive strength
3) loss of weight/mass
4) change in color
1.1.1 EFFECTS:
1) There is a reduction found in the compressive strength of concrete when the
temperatures are raised. This is because of the reduction of strength in aggregate,
evaporation of moisture in the concrete matrix. The aggregate/cement ratio has also
an effect, with the reduction being proportionally smaller for lean mixes than for rich
mixes. Concrete’s compressive strength varies not only with temperature but also
with a number of other factors, including the rate of heating, the duration of
heating, whether the specimen was loaded or not, the type and size of aggregate,
the percentage of cement paste, and the water/cement ratio. In general, concrete
heated by a building fire always loses some compressive strength and continues to
lose it on cooling. However, where the temperature has not exceeded 300ºC, most
strength eventually is recovered.
2) The modulus of elasticity is influenced in the same way by the factors mentioned
previously for the compressive strength. The reduction as a function of temperature
is bigger than the compressive strength because the peak stress-strain increases
with the temperature.
3) In fact the tensile strength of the concrete has a tendency to decrease faster with
the temperature than the compressive strength.
4) On heating, a change in colour from normal to a pink/red is often observed and
this is useful since it coincides with the onset of significant loss of concrete strength.
The full development of the pink/red colour is coincident with substantial reduction
in compressive strength and the method may be used to define the distance from a
heated surface where strength degradation has occurred.

1.2 CHANGES TO CONCRETE IN FIRE:

Concrete does not burn – it cannot be ‘set on fire’ like other materials in a building
and it does not emit any toxic fumes when affected by fire. It will also not produce
smoke or drip molten particles, unlike some plastics and metals, so it does not add
to the fire load. For these reasons concrete is said to have a high degree of fire
resistance and, in the majority of applications, concrete can be described as virtually
‘fireproof’. This excellent performance is due in the main to concrete’s constituent
materials (i.e. cement and aggregates) which, when chemically combined within
concrete, form a material that is essentially inert and, importantly for fire safety
design, has a relatively poor thermal conductivity. It is this slow rate of heat transfer
(conductivity) that enables concrete to act as an effective fire shield not only
between adjacent spaces, but also to protect itself from fire damage.
The rate of increase of temperature through the cross section of a concrete element
is relatively slow and so internal zones do not reach the same high temperatures as
a surface exposed to flames.
When concrete is exposed to the high temperatures of a fire, a number of physical
and chemical changes can take place. These changes are shown in the chart below,
which relates temperature levels within the concrete (not the flame temperatures) to
some indicative changes in its properties.
1.2.1CONCRETE IN FIRE: PHYSIOCHEMICAL PROCESS

Fig-1.0: Physiochemical Process

The various effects of concrete generally observed are shown in the above Fig-1.0.
1.3 BENEFITS OF USING CONCRETE
• Concrete is non-combustible (i.e. it does not burn).
• Concrete is inherently fire resistant (i.e. it does not support the spread of fire).
• Concrete has a slow rate of heat transfer (making it an effective fire shield).
• Concrete does not produce any smoke, toxic gases or emissions in a fire situation.
• Concrete does not contribute to the fire load of a building.
• Under typical fire conditions, concrete retains most of its strength.

1.4 NON-DESTRUCTIVE TESTING:

Objectives:
 To establish homogeneity of concrete.
 Comparison of concrete quality with respect to Standards.
 Detection of cracks or voids any other imperfections in concrete.
 Monitoring changes in concrete with passage of time.
 To establish quality of one element with respect to another.
 Assessment of exiting structure for rehabilitation planning.
 As an alternative testing method if cube results raise doubts about concrete
quality (Post Mortem).
2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW:

2.1 MECHANICS OF DETERIORATION OF RC MEMBERS UNDER FIRE

The behaviour of RC members under fire is quite different from that at room
temperature mainly due to the fact that under fire conditions, applied loads generally
remains constant, but the strength and stiffness of the member degrade with fire
exposure time. The increasing temperatures lead to gradual degradation of
properties in concrete and reinforcing steel which in turn reduces the strength and
stiffness of the member. With the progression of fire exposure time, this rise in
temperature extends to the inner layers of concrete leading to further reduction in
strength and stiffness, which will continue till the strength of the member decreases
to the level of the applied loads. At this point the member is considered to have
failed and the time to this point is the fire resistance. In contrast to an isolated
member such as column or beam a complete structural system such as continuous
beams, frames etc performs better during a fire event since structural interaction is
beneficial to the overall fire response. This is because redistribution of moments
occurs between various members from heated member to cooler parts of the frame.
Further local failure of some of the structural members may not necessarily
endanger the overall stability of the structural system. In such cases the weakened
members develop alternative load pattern to bridge over the area of collapse. This is
a current area of research and requires full scale fire tests.

2.1.1 LITERATURE FROM PAST STUDIES

Sujith Ghosh Etal studied on the effects of high temperature up to 232oC and high
pressures up to 13.8 Mpa on the strength of concrete containing various levels of
high calcium lignite fly ash and a fixed percentage of condensed silica fumes. It was
reported that the decrease in strength was due to the gradual deterioration of the
binding matrix with a rise in temperature.
Sarshar R and khoury G.A carried out investigations to asses the influence of
material and environmental factors on the compressive strength of unsealed cement
paste and concrete at higher temperatures and found that both material and
environmental factors were influencing the strength of concrete during the heat
cycle and after cooling. The cement part replacements used were silica fume,
ground granulated blast furnace slag and pulverized fuel ash. Duration of high
temperature did not significantly affect the residual compressive strength of the
specimens except at lower temperature ranges of 100oC. It was reported that the
hot strength was greater than the residual strength for a given test temperature.
Castilo C and Durrani A J carried out investigations to study the effect of transient
high temperatures on compressive strength of high strength concrete under both
unloaded and pre loaded conditions and to compare the behavior with that of
normal strength concrete. Based on the results obtained in the study it was
concluded that when exposed to temperatures in the range of 100 to 300 oC.
M. Saad etal investigated the effect of temperature on physical and mechanical
properties of concrete. In their study ordinary Portland cement has been partially
replaced by ratios of silica fume. The heat treatment temperature varied from 100 to
600oC for three hours without any load. The specimens were heated under similar
conditions for each temperature level. Comparisons between physical and
mechanical properties during heat treatment were investigated. All specimens were
moist cured for 28 days after casting. Results of this investigation indicated that
replacement of ordinary Portland cement by 10% silica fume by weight improved the
compressive strength by about 64.6% but replacement of ordinary Portland cement
by 10% silica fume by ratios 20 and 30 % improved the compressive strength by
about 28% at 600oC. This could be attributed with tobermerite gel which formed due
to the reaction of silica fume with Ca (OH)3 .
Sri Ravindra Rajah R Etal presented the results of an experimental investigation
into the effects of high temperature on the residual compressive for high strength
concrete made with ordinary Portland cement and blended cement. Concrete
specimens wee heated in a muffle furnace to varying temperatures up to 800 oC and
the changes in the compressive strength, ultrasonic pulse velocity and rebound
number were determined. The heated specimens wee sudden cooling in water and
slow cooling in air. The results showed that the compressive strength, pulse velocity
and rebound number were decreased with the increase in exposed temperature. The
weight loss from concrete increased non- linearly with the maximum exposed
temperature. The compressive strength noticeably decreased for concrete with
blended cement compared to that of with ordinary Portland cement. Sudden cooling
caused further reduction in concrete strengths. The residual compressive strength
for high strength concrete with blended cement after heating to 800 oC and water
quenched, were 31 % of its initial strength whereas they corresponding residual
strength for concrete with ordinary Portland cement was 44%.

2.2FACTORS AFFECTING FIRE PERFORMANCE IN HIGH STRENGTH

CONCRETE

2.2.1 Original Compressive Strength of Concrete:

While it is hard to specify the exact strength range based on the available
information, concrete strengths higher than 55Mpa are susceptible to spalling and
may result in lower fire resistance. (V.K.R Kodur , Fire safety journal, 31st
October 2006).
2.2.2 Moisture Content of Concrete
The moisture content, expressed in terms of relative humidity. Relative humidity
influences the extent of spalling. Higher relative humidity levels lead to greater
spalling (V.K.R Kodur, Construction technology update No.31, Dec 1999).
2.2.3 Concrete Density
The effect of concrete density is studied by means of fire tests on normal density
(made with normal weight aggregates) and light weight (made with light weight
aggregates). The extent of spalling was found to be much greater when lightweight
aggregate is used. This is main because the light weight aggregates contains more
free moisture, which creates higher vapour pressure under fire resistance (V.K.R
Kodur and L.Phan, Fire safety journal, 31st October 2006).
2.2.4 Specimen Dimension
Thermal spalling increases with specimen size. This is due to fact that specimen
size is directly related to heat and moisture transport through the structure, as well
as the capacity of larger structures to store more energy therefore careful
consideration must be given to the size of specimens when evaluating the spalling
problem. Fire tests are often conducted on small scale specimens which can give
misleading results (V.K.R Kodur, Construction technology update No.31, Dec
1999).
2.2.5 Lateral Reinforcement
The spacing and configuration of ties have a significant effect on the performance
of HSC. Both closer tie spacing (at 0.75 times that required for NSC members) and
bending of ties at 135 back into the core of the concrete column enhance fire
resistance (V.K.R Kodur, Construction technology update No.31, Dec 1999).

2.2.6 Types of Aggregate

Of the two types of aggregates, carbonate aggregates provide higher resistance
and better spalling resistance in concrete than does with siliceous aggregates. This is
mainly because carbonate aggregates has a substantially higher heat capacity which
is beneficial in preventing spalling. This increase in specific heat is likely caused by
the dissociation of the dolomite in the carbonate concrete. (V.K.R Kodur,
Construction technology update No.31, Dec 1999).

2.3 EFFECT OF ELEVATED TEMPERATURES ON CONCRETE MATERIALS

Portland cements are manufactured by mixing finely divided calcareous and
argillaceous materials. The four compounds that make up more than 90% of the dry
weight of cement are tricalcium silicate (3Cao.Sio2), dicalcium silicate (2Cao.Sio2),
tricalcium aluminate (3Cao.Al2O3) and tetra calcium aluminoferrite
(4Ca.Al2O3.Fe2O3).when water is added to Portland cement, an exothermic reaction
occurs, and new compounds are formed. Mature cement paste is normally composed
of 70-80% layered C-S-H gel, 20% Ca(OH)2 and other chemical compounds.
Bonding of water within the layers with other group via hydrogen bonds determines
the strength, stiffness and creep properties of the cement paste.( D,J,Naus Nov
2005 Manuscript prepared for the U S nuclear regulatory commision)., .
Under elevated temperature exposure the Portland cement paste experiences
physical and chemical changes that contribute to development of shrinkage, creep
and changes in strength (D.J Naus Nov 2005 Manuscript prepared for the U S
nuclear regulatory commision).
The property variations result largely because of changes in the moisture condition
of the concrete constituents and the progressive deterioration of thee cement paste-
aggregate bond. As aggregates materials normally occupy 65-75% of the concrte
volume, the behaviour of concrete at elevated temperature is strongly influenced by
the aggregate type. Commonly used aggregate materials are thermally stable upto
300-500C. Aggregate materials may undergo crystal transformations leading to
significant increase in volume between 500-650C (D.J Naus Nov 2005
Manuscript prepared for the U S nuclear regulatory commision).
Apart from the crystalline transformations occurring mainly in the aggregate
materials during heating, a number of degradation reactions occur, primarily in the
cement paste, that result in a progressive break down in the structure of the
concrete. There are a number of physical and chemical changes which occur in
concrete subjected to heat some of these are reversible upon cooling, but others are
non-reversible and may significantly weaken the concrete structure after a fire
(Stephen Welch “Behaviour of concrete structures in fire”.).
Upon first heating free water and chemically bound water in the concrete undergo
transformation from liquid state to gaseous state. Due to this transformation there
will be expansion in the concrete volume. As the temperature goes on increasing the
water pressure also increases, there won’t be escape of this generated water
pressure there will be expansion in the concrete volume up to certain temperature,
and leads to the formation of micro cracks. There will be severe spalling and the
compressive strength and stiffness of the structure falls down drastically (IAN
FLETCHER “Behaviour of concrete structures in fire”.).

2.4 CONCRETE IN FIRE

2.4.1Effect of Temperature on Thermal Properties of Different Types of
Concrete
During the last three decades there have been significant research and
development activities in concrete technology and this has led to improved concrete
mixes known as HPC. These HPC mixes which include HSC, SCC, Fiber Reinforced
Concrete (FRC) and Fly Ash Concrete (FAC) offer superior strength, durability and
cost advantages. Thus, they are finding a wide range of applications. However, a
number of recent studies have indicated that some of these newer concrete, such as
HSC do not provide the same level of fire resistance as that of conventional
concrete. Evaluating fire resistance of a structural system requires knowledge of
high-temperature, properties of constituent materials. The properties of concrete
that are needed for fire resistance analysis are thermal, mechanical, deformation
and special properties such as fire-induced spalling, thermal properties include
thermal conductivity, specific heat, thermal expansion and mass loss. At this stage it
is important to understand the behaviour of concrete at different temperatures. This
is as shown in table1:

Table 1: Behaviour of concrete at different temperatures

TEMPERATURE BEHAVIOUR UNDER FIRE
100-140°C Build up of pressure within concrete
250-420°C Some spalling may take place, with
pieces of concrete breaking away from
the surface
300°C Strength loss starts, but in reality only
the first fire few centimetres of concrete
exposed to fire will get any hotter than
this, and internally the temperature is
well below this.
550-600°C Cement-based materials experience
considerable creep and lose their load
bearing capacity.
600°C Above this temperature, concrete is not
functioning at its full strength or
structural capacity.
900°C Air temperature in fire rarely exceeds this
level, but flame temperature can rise to
1200C and beyond.

2.4.2 Spalling problem

Generally concrete structural members perform well under fire situation. Studies
show, however, the performance of HSC differs generally from that of NSC and may
not exhibit good fire performance. Spalling under fire conditions is one of the major
concerns with HSC, a problem that is due to its low W/C ratio. Spalling is often
assumed to occur only at high temperatures yet it has also been observed in the
early stages of fire and at temperatures as low as 200°c.spalling results in the rapid
loss of surface layers of the concrete during fire. If core concrete is exposed to fire
temperatures, thereby increasing the transmission of heat to the core concrete and
the reinforcement. Spalling is attributed to the build-up of pore pressure during
heating.HSC is believed to be more susceptible to this pressure build-up because of
its low permeability, compared to that of NSC. The extremely high water vapour
pressure, generated during exposure to fire, cannot escape because of high density
of HSC.

2.4.3 CRACKING
The process leading to cracking are generally believed to be similar to those which
generate spalling. Thermal expansion and dehydration of the concrete due to
heating may lead to the formation of fissures in the concrete. These fissures may
provide pathways for direct heating of the reinforcement bars, possibly bringing
about more thermal stress and cracks. Under certain circumstances the cracks may
provide path way for fire to spread between adjoining compartments.

2.4.4 Performance of Reinforcement in Fire

The performance of steel during a fire is understood to a high degree than the
performance of concrete, and the strength of steel at a given temperature can be
predicted with reasonable confidence. It is generally held that steel reinforcement
bars need to be protected from exposure to temperature in excess of 250-300°c.
Concrete and steel exhibits similar thermal expansion at temperature upto 400°c.
However, higher temperature will result in significant expansion of the steel
compared to the concrete and, if temperature of the order of 700°c are attained, the
load bearing capacity of steel reinforcement will be reduced to about 20% of its
design value. Reinforcement can also have a significant effect on the transport of
water in a heated concrete member, creating impermeable regions where water may
become trapped. This trapped water alters the heat flow near the reinforcement,
tending to reduce the temperature of the internal concrete.
2.5 CODES AND STANDARDS

Concrete structures in the US are to be designed in accordance with the

specifications of American concrete institute (ACI-318, 2005) standard. While ACI-
318 has does not contain any fire provisions it refers to ACI-216.1(2007) standard
which give specifications for fire resistance ratings of concrete and masonary
structural members. Similarly NBC (2005); Eurocode 2 (2004); IS:456-2000 and AS
3600 (2001) provide fire resistance specifications in Canada, Europe, India, and
Australia respectively.

The fire resistance provisions in most codes are in the form of tabulated fire ratings
and are dependent on the aggregate type, cross section size and concrete cover
thickness to main reinforcement. These provisions are derived based on full scale
fire tests under ASTM E-119 (2008).
CHAPTER 3

3.0 EXPERIMENTAL PROGRAM

3.1 OBJECT AND SCOPE OF INVESTIGATION:

The study on concrete subjected to elevated temperatures is assuming significance

now- a- days. The study of literature has revealed changes in mechanical properties
of concrete when it is subjected to high temperatures. Further the new concretes
that are being developed such as SCC requires the characterisation when it is
subjected to elevated temperatures .This is required because of the changes in the
composition of the material such as the differences in the paste phase and
aggregate phase between the NC and new concretes. Such a study is very much
necessary to establish the durability of new concrete. The present investigation
focuses on study of compressive strength behaviour of NC and SCC subjected to
elevated temperatures.

The objective of the investigation tries to answer the following questions:

1) What happens to the compressive strength of concrete when it is subjected to

elevated temperatures?
2) Is there a difference in the strength behaviour of SCC compare to NC?
3) How to quantify changes in the strength behaviour of SCC and NC when there
are subjected to elevated temperatures?
4) What is effect of use of higher strength concrete on the strength behaviour at
elevated temperatures?
5) What is the effect of cooling regime on the strength behaviour of SCC and
NC?
6) Is there any risk of spalling of concrete when it is subjected to high
temperatures?
7) How the hardness of surface is changing with elevated temperatures?

To answer the above questions an experiment investigation has been carried out on
NC and SCC concrete subjecting them to elevated temperatures .The following are
the parameters of experimental investigation.
 1) type of concrete- NC,SCC
2) grade of concrete-M20,M40
3) temperature exposure-Room temperature(<40°c),400°c,600°c and 800°c
4) types of cooling regime-Hot condition, Water quenching and Air cooling

The study include casting and testing of normal concrete and SCC specimens after
subjecting them to different magnitudes of temperature and adopting different
cooling regimes. Before conducting the destructive tests on the specimens the non
destructive tests were carried out using re-bound hammer.

3.2 Introduction

The experimental program was designed to investigate study on compressive

strength behaviour of normal concrete and self compacting concrete subjected to
elevated temperatures. The primary aim of the experimental study is to compare the
compressive strengths of NC and SCC of M20 and M40 grade with different cooling
regimes. The program consists of casting and testing a total number of 120 cubes of
100x100x100mm size each. Of these 120 cubes 60 cubes were casted with M20 and
M40 NC and remaining 60 cubes were casted with the same grades of SCC. Different
sets of cubes were tested for different sets of temperatures, for a time interval of
60min, with different modes of cooling which are as tabulated below in table 3.1

Table 3.1 Details of specimens casted:

No: of No: of No: of

No: of
S. Grade specimens specimens specimens
specimens
of Temperat cast cast cast
N concre ure 100X100X100 100X100X100 100X100X100
cast
o 100X100X100
te mm (Hot mm (Air mm (Water
mm
state) cooling) quenching)

- - - - 3

400oC 3 3 3 -
1. M20
600oC 3 3 3 -

800oC 3 3 3 -

- - - - 3
2. M40
400oC 3 3 3 -
 600oC 3 3 3 -

800oC 3 3 3 -

- - - - 3

400oC 3 3 3 -
3. M20
600oC 3 3 3 -

800oC 3 3 3 -

- - - - 3

400oC 3 3 3 -
4. M40
600oC 3 3 3 -

800oC 3 3 3 -

3.3 MATERIALS USED

The different materials used in this investigation are

 53 Grade Ordinary Portland cement.

 Fine Aggregate.
 Coarse Aggregate
 Super Plasticizer (CONPLAST SP430).
 Fly ash.

3.3.1 Cement

Cement used in the investigation was 53 Grade Ordinary Portland cement

confirming to IS: 12269[27].The cement was obtained from a single consignment and
of the same grade and same source. Procuring the cement it was stored properly. The
Specific gravity of the cement is found to be 3.11

3.3.2 Fine Aggregate

The fine aggregate conforming to Zone-2 according to IS: 383[28] was used.
The fine aggregate used was obtained from a nearby river source. The bulk density,
specific gravity of the sand used were 1.56g/cc and 2.42.The sand obtained was
sieved as per IS sieves (i.e.2.36, 1.18, 600,300 and 150). Sand retained on each
sieve was filled in different bags and stacked separately for use. To obtain zone-2
sand correctly, sand retained on each sieve is mixed in appropriate proportion
according to the mix design and required quantity in which each size fraction is mixed
is shown in Table 3.2.

Table 3.2 Proportions of Different Size Fractions of Sand to Obtain Zone-2 Sand

Sieve size % Passing Adopted %Weight Cumulative Weight

(mm) recommended grading retained % Weight retained in
by IS: retained gms.
383[36]

10-4.75 100 100 - - -

4.75-2.36 90-100 100 - - -

2.36-1.18 75-100 90 10 10 100

1.18-0.60 55-90 65 25 35 250

0.60-0.30 35-59 40 25 60 250

0.30-0.15 8-30 10 30 90 300

0.15 0-10 0 10 100 100

3.3.3 Coarse Aggregate

Crushed granite Aggregate was used as coarse aggregate. The coarse

aggregate was obtained from a local crushing unit having 20mm MSA, 20mm 16mm,
and 10mm well graded aggregate according to IS: 383 is used in this investigation.
The bulk density, specific gravity of the coarse aggregate sand used was 1.41g/cc,
2.65.
3.3.4 Fly ash

Fly ash confirming to IS3812:1981 is used as mineral admixture. Mineral

admixtures are used to improve the fresh and hardened properties of
concrete and at the same time reduce the cost of concrete materials. In
order to achieve the necessary viscosity to avoid segregation, additional fine
materials are used.

3.3.5 Super plasticizer

High range water reducing admixtures known as super plasticizers are used
for improving the flow or workability for decreased water-cement ratio without
decreasing the compressive strength. These admixtures when they disperse in
cement agglomerates significantly decrease a viscosity of the paste by forming a thin
film around the cement particles. In the present work water-reducing admixture
Conplast SP430 is differentiated from conventional superplasticisers in that it is
based on a unique carboxylic ether polymer with long lateral chains. This greatly
improves cement dispersion. At the start of the mixing process an electrostatic
dispersion occurs but the cement particle’s capacity to separate and disperse. This
mechanism considerably reduces the water demand in flowable concrete. Conplast
SP430 combines the properties of water reduction and workability retention. It
allows the production of high performance concrete and/or concrete with high
workability.

3.3.6 Water

Potable water was used in the experimental work for both mixing and curing.

3.4 CONCRETE MIX DESIGN:

3.4.1 INTRODUCTION:
The process of selecting suitable ingredients of concrete and determining their
relative amounts with the objective of producing a concrete of the required,
strength, durability, and workability as economically as possible, is termed as
concrete mix design. The proportioning of ingredient of concrete is governed by the
required performance of concrete in 2 states, namely the plastic and the hardened
states. If the plastic concrete is not workable, it cannot be properly placed and
compacted. The property of workability, therefore, becomes of vital importance.
The compressive strength of hardened concrete which is generally considered to be
an index of its other properties, depends upon many factors, e.g. quality and
quantity of cement, water and aggregates; batching and mixing; placing,
compaction and curing. From technical point of view the rich mixes may lead to high
shrinkage and cracking in the structural concrete, and to evolution of high heat of
hydration in mass concrete which may cause cracking.

3.4.2 REQUIREMENTS OF CONCRETE MIX DESIGN:

The requirements which form the basis of selection and proportioning of mix
ingredients are:
 The minimum compressive strength required from structural consideration
 The adequate workability necessary for full compaction with the compacting
equipment available.
 Maximum water-cement ratio and/or maximum cement content to give
adequate durability for particular site conditions
 Maximum cement content to avoid shrinkage cracking due to temperature
cycle in mass concrete.
The mix design of concrete used is tabulated in Table-3.3.

Table-3.3: Proportions of materials adopted in NC:

M20 M40
Cement
Fine aggregate
Coarse aggregate
Water

3.5 TESTS ON CONCRETE:

There are many tests which are conducted to check the quality of concrete. These
tests are basically divided into two categories:
 Tests on fresh concrete
 Tests on hardened concrete
3.5.1 Various Lab Test on Fresh Concrete (Normal concrete).
Under these, we have the following tests
 Slump Test - Workability
 Compacting Factor
3.5.1.1 Slump cone test:
Slump test is used to determine the workability of fresh concrete. Slump test as per
IS: 1199 -1959 is followed. The apparatus used for doing slump test are Slump cone
and tamping rod.

Procedure to determine workability of fresh concrete by slump test:

The internal surface of the mould is thoroughly cleaned and applied with a light coat
of oil.
 The mould is placed on a smooth, horizontal, rigid and nonabsorbent surface.
 The mould is then filled in four layers with freshly mixed concrete, each
approximately to onefourth of the height of the mould.
 Each layer is tamped 25 times by the rounded end of the tamping rod
(strokes are distributed evenly over the cross section). After the top layer is
tamped, the concrete is struck off the level with a trowel.
 The mould is removed from the concrete immediately by raising it slowly in
the vertical direction.
 The difference in level between the height of the mould and that of the
highest point of the subsided concrete is measured. This difference in height
in mm is the slump of the concrete, is shown in fig -4.3.
 Fig-4.3: Fresh concrete after slump cone test

3.5.1.2 Compacting Factor:

Compacting factor of fresh concrete is done to determine the workability of fresh
concrete by compacting factor test as per IS: 1199 – 1959. The apparatus used is
Compacting factor apparatus was shown in figure-4.4.
Procedure to determine workability of fresh concrete by compacting factor
test:

 The sample of concrete is placed in the upper hopper up to the brim.

 The trap-door is opened so that the concrete falls into the lower hopper.
 The trap-door of the lower hopper is opened and the concrete is allowed to
fall into the cylinder.
 The excess concrete remaining above the top level of the cylinder is then cut
off with the help of plane blades.
 The concrete in the cylinder is weighed. This is known as weight of partially
compacted concrete.
 The cylinder is filled with a fresh sample of concrete and vibrated to obtain
full compaction.
  The concrete in the cylinder is weighed again. This weight is known as the
weight of fully compacted concrete.

Fig -4.4: Compacting Factor apparatus

3.6 Mix Design Procedure(SCC):

To produce SCC, the major work involves designing an appropriate mix proportion
and evaluating the properties of the concrete thus obtained. As a part of mix design
aggregate proportions are calculated using compressible packing model. Cement
quantity and fly ash content are obtained from previous literature and these are
modified according to EFNARC specifications to get fresh, hardened properties and
economical mixes.

3.6.1 Mix proportions

Compressible packing model is used to arrive at the proportion of aggregates. Cement

content and fly ash content are obtained from previous studies and modified
accordingly as per EFNARC to achieve optimum mix proportions satisfying fresh
properties , hardened properties and also economy. The proportions arrived for
different grades of SCC are given in the table 3.1.
Table 3.4 Mix proportions for M20 and M40 grades of SCC.

M20
C/F = 40/60
Cement Flyash F.A C.A Water SP 430
270 200 1155 696 202.5 33.22
1 0.74 4.28 2.6 0.75 0.123
16- 12.5- 4.75- 2.36- 1.18- 0.6-
20-16 12.5 10 10-4.75 2.36 1.18 0.6 0.3
0.04 0.04 0.12 0.2 0.03 0.06 0.21 0.3

M40
C/F = 40/60
Cement Flyash F.A C.A Water SP 430
420 154 1132.56 682.44 226.8 31.08
1 0.36 2.7 1.62 0.54 0.074
16- 12.5- 4.75- 2.36- 1.18- 0.6-
20-16 12.5 10 10-4.75 2.36 1.18 0.6 0.3
0 0.05 0.05 0.3 0.03 0.06 0.21 0.3

3.6.2 Various Lab Test on Fresh Properties of Self-Compacting Concrete

At the stage before solidification, self-compacting concrete is required to have

three qualities: high-flow ability, resistance against segregation and possibility, i.e.
ability that is necessary to pass the space between reinforcing bars. Therefore, it is
important to test whether the concrete is self-compactable or not and also to
evaluate deformability or viscosity for estimating proper mix proportioning if the
concrete does not have sufficient self-compactability. The common tests currently
used, although not standardized for assessment of fresh SCC, are described here.

3.6.2.1 Slump flow + T50 (Reference method for filling ability)

Principle:

The slump flow test aims at investigating the filling ability of SCC. It measures two
parameters: flow spread and flow time T50 (optional). The former indicates the free,
unrestricted deformability and the latter indicates the rate of deformation within a
defined flow distance.

Equipment:

(a).Base plate of size 900 × 900 mm, made of impermeable and rigid material (steel
or Glass) with smooth and plane test surface (deviation of the flatness not exceed 3
mm), and clearly marked with circles of Ø200mm and Ø500mm and Ø600mm at the
centre, as shown In Figure 3.12.

(b).Abrams cone with the internal upper/lower diameter equal to 100/200 mm and
the height of 300 mm, as shown in Figure 1. (c). Stopwatch with the accuracy of 0.1
second for recording the flow time T50. (d). Ruler (graduated in mm) for measuring
the diameters of the flow spread. (e). Bucket with a capacity of larger than 6 liters.
for sampling fresh concrete. (f). Moist sponge or towel for wetting the inner surface
of the cone and the test surface of the base plate. (g). Rag for cleaning spilled
concrete if any.

Fig.3.1Abrams Slump flow Equipment

Test procedure:

 Place the cleaned base plate in a stable and level position. Fill the bucket with
6~7 litres of representative fresh SCC and let the sample stand still for about
1 minute (± 10 seconds). During the 1 minute waiting period pre-wet the
 inner surface of the cone and the test surface of the base plate using the
moist sponge or towel, and place the cone in the centre on the 200 mm circle
of the base plate and cone is kept in position by hand one to keep it in place.
 Fill the cone with the sample from the bucket without any external
compacting action such as rodding or vibrating. The surplus concrete above
the top of the cone should be struck off, and any concrete remaining on the
base plate should be removed. Check and make sure that the test surface is
neither too wet nor too dry. No dry area on the base plate is allowed and any
surplus of the water should be removed – the moisture state of the plate has
to be ‘just wet’.
 After a short rest (no more than 30 seconds for cleaning and checking the
moist state of the test surface), lift the cone perpendicular to the base plate
in a single movement, in such a manner that the concrete is allowed to flow
out freely without obstruction from the cone, and start the stopwatch the
moment the cone looses contact with the base plate. Stop the stopwatch
when the front of the concrete first touches the circle of diameter 500 mm.
The stopwatch reading is recorded as the T50 value. The test is completed
when the concrete flow has ceased.
 Measure the largest diameter of the flow spread, d max, and the one
perpendicular to it, dper, using the ruler (reading to nearest 5 mm). Care
should be taken to prevent the ruler from bending. Clean the base plate and
the cone after testing.
 The slump flow spread S is the average of diameters dmax and dper, as shown
in Equation. S is expressed in mm to the nearest 5 mm. S=(dmax+dper)/2
 The slump flow time T50 is the period between the moment the cone eaves
the base plate and SCC first touches the circle of diameter 500 mm. T50 is
expressed in seconds to the nearest 1/10 seconds.
Interpretation of result:

The higher the slump flow (SF) value, the greater its ability to fill formwork under its
own weight. A value of at least 650mm is required for SCC. There is no generally
accepted advice on what are reasonable tolerances about a specified value, though
± 50mm, as with the related flowtable test, might be appropriate.

The T50 time is a secondary indication of flow. A lower time indicates greater
flowability.

3.6.2.2 J-ring (Reference method for filling and/or passing ability)

Principle:

The J-ring test aims at investigating both the filling ability and the passing ability of
SCC. It can also be used to investigate the resistance of SCC to segregation by
comparing test results from two different portions of sample. The J-ring test
measures three parameters: flow spread, flow time T50J (optional) and blocking
step. The J-ring flow spread indicates the restricted deformability of SCC due to
blocking effect of reinforcement bars and the flow time T50J indicates the rate of
deformation within a defined flow distance. The blocking step quantifies the effect of
blocking.

Equipment:

(a)Mould, WITHOUT foot pieces, in the shape of a truncated cone with the internal
dimensions 200 mm diameter at the base, 100 mm diameter at the top and a height
of 300 mm (b) base plate of a stiff non absorbing material, at least 700mm square,
marked with a circle showing the central location for the slump cone, and a further
concentric circle of 500mm diameter (c) trowel (d) scoop

(e) Ruler (f) J-Ring a rectangular section (30mm x 25mm) open steel ring, drilled
vertically with holes. In the holes can be screwed threaded sections of reinforcement
bar (length 100mm, diameter 10mm, spacing 48 +/- 2mm)
Fig 3.2 J-Ring equipment

Procedure:

 About 6 liter of concrete is needed to perform the test, sampled normally.

Moisten the base plate and inside of slump cone. Place base-plate on level
stable ground. Place the J-Ring centrally on the base-plate and the and the
slump-cone centrally inside it and hold down firmly.
 Fill the cone with the scoop. Do not tamp, simply strike off the concrete level
with the top of the cone with the trowel. Remove any surplus concrete from
around the base of the cone.
 Raise the cone vertically and allow the concrete to flow out freely.
 Measure the final diameter of the concrete in two perpendicular directions.
Measure the difference in height between the concrete just inside the bars
and that just outside the bars.
 Calculate the average of the two measured diameters. (in mm).Calculate the
average of the difference in height at four locations (in mm).
Interpretation of result:

It should be appreciated that although these combinations of tests measure flow and
passing ability, the results are not independent. The measured flow is certainly
affected by the degree to which the concrete movement is blocked by the
reinforcing bars. The extent of blocking is much less affected by the flow
characteristics, and we can say that clearly, the greater the difference in height, the
less the passing ability of the concrete. Blocking and/or segregation can also be
detected visually, often more reliably than by calculation.

3.6.2.3 V-funnel test and V-funnel test at T 5minutes

Principle:

The V-funnel flow time is the period a defined volume of SCC needs to pass a
narrow opening and gives an indication of the filling ability of SCC provided that
blocking and/or segregation do not take place; the flow time of the V-funnel test is
to some degree related to the plastic viscosity.

Equipment:

(a)V-funnel (b)Bucket ( ±12 litre ) (c)Trowel (d)Scoop (e)Stopwatch

Fig 3.3 V-Funnel equipment

Procedure flow time:

 About 12 litre of concrete is needed to perform the test, sampled normally.

Set the V-funnel on firm ground. Moisten the inside surfaces of the funnel.
Keep the trap door open to allow any surplus water to drain. Close the trap
door and place a bucket underneath.
 Fill the apparatus completely with concrete without compacting or tamping,
simply strike off the concrete level with the top with the trowel. Open within
 10 sec after filling the trap door and allow the concrete to flow out under
gravity.
 Start the stopwatch when the trap door is opened, and record the time for
the discharge to complete (the flow time). This is taken to be when light is
seen from above through the funnel. The whole test has to be performed
within 5 minutes.
Procedure flow time at T 5 minutes:

 Do not clean or moisten the inside surfaces of the funnel again. Close the trap
door and refill the V-funnel immediately after measuring the flow time. Place
a bucket underneath.
 Fill the apparatus completely with concrete without compacting or tapping,
simply strike off the concrete level with the top with the trowel. Open the trap
door 5 minutes after the second fill of the funnel and allow the concrete to
flow out under gravity.
 Simultaneously start the stopwatch when the trap door is opened, and record
the time for the discharge to complete (the flow time at T 5 minutes).
This is taken to be when light is seen from above through the funnel.
Interpretation of result:

This test measures the ease of flow of the concrete; shorter flow times indicate
greater flowability. For SCC a flow time of 10 seconds is considered appropriate. The
inverted cone shape restricts flow, and prolonged flow times may give some
indication of the susceptibility of the mix to blocking.

After 5 minutes of settling, segregation of concrete will show a less continuous flow
with an increase in flow time.

3.6.2.4 L-box test method

Principle:

The method aims at investigating the passing ability of SCC. It measures the
reached height of fresh SCC after passing through the specified gaps of steel bars
and flowing within a defined flow distance. With this reached height, the passing or
blocking behavior of SCC can be estimated.

Equipment:

(a)L-box of a stiff non absorbing material (b) Trowel (c) Scoop (d) Stopwatch

Fig. 3.4 L-Box equipment

Procedure:

 About 14 litre of concrete is needed to perform the test, sampled normally.

Set the apparatus level on firm ground, ensure that the sliding gate can open
freely and then close it. Moisten the inside surfaces of the apparatus, remove
any surplus water
 Fill the vertical section of the apparatus with the concrete sample. Leave it to
stand for 1 minute. Lift the sliding gate and allow the concrete to flow out
into the horizontal section. Simultaneously, start the stopwatch and record
the times taken for the concrete to reach the 200 and 400 mm marks.
 When the concrete stops flowing, the distances “H1” and “H2” are measured.
Calculate H2/H1, the blocking ratio. The whole test has to be performed
within 5 minutes.
Interpretation of result:

If the concrete flows as freely as water, at rest it will be horizontal, so H2/H1 = 1.

Therefore the nearer this test value, the ‘blocking ratio’, is to unity, the better the
flow of the concrete. Obvious blocking of coarse aggregate behind the reinforcing
bars can be detected visually.The values obtained are checked against the
acceptance criterion by EFNARC as shown in the table 3.3

3.5. Fresh Properties of Self-Compacting Concrete

Fresh SCC must the following key properties possess at required levels:

(a) Filling ability: this is the ability of the SCC to flow into all spaces within the
formwork under its own weight.

(b) Passing ability: this is the ability of the SCC to flow through tight
openings such as spaces between steel reinforcing bars, under its own weight.

(c) Resistance to segregation: The SCC must meet the required levels of
properties (a) & (b) while its composition remains uniform throughout the process of
transport and placing. Many tests have been used in successful applications of SCC.
However, in all the projects the SCC was produced and placed by an experienced
contractor whose staff has been trained and acquired experience with
interpretation of a different group of tests. In other cases, the construction
was preceded by full-scale trials in which a number, often excessive, of
specific tests was used (Ouchi et al., 1996). The same tests were later used on the
site itself.

Table 3.5 Fresh Properties of Self-Compacting Concrete.

EFNARC
S.No Method Unit M20 M40
Specification

slump flow
1. by Abrams mm 600 680 650-800
cone

T50cmslump
2. sec 5 4 2-5
Flow

3 J-ring cm 4 2 0-10

4. V-funnel sec 5 6 6-12

 Time
increase,
5. sec 6 5 +3
V-funnel at
T5minutes

3.7 CASTING OF SPECIMENS:

The standards moulds of size 100x100x100mm were fitted such that there are no
gaps between the plates of the moulds. If there are small gaps they were filled with
plaster of Paris. The moulds then oiled and kept ready for casting. The entire casting
was done in two stages each corresponding to M20 and M40 grades of NC and SCC. A
pan mixer having 100kg capacity was used for mixing concrete. In case of SCC of M20
and M40 grades super plasticizer was used for workability purpose as per the
specifications and calculations. This was dispersed in water in required proportion
before mixing the water with the ingredients coarse, fine aggregates, cement and fly
ash. The entire mix is mixed in pan mixer for about 3-5min and then poured in
moulds. At the end of casting the top surface was made plane using trowel and a
hacksaw blade to ensure a top uniform surface. After 24 hrs of casting the moulds
were kept for wet curing for 28 days before testing.

3.8 Curing

After the completion of casting all the specimens were kept to maintain the ambient
conditions viz. temperature of 35±2 C and 90% relative humidity for 24hours. The
specimens were removed from the mould and submerged in clean fresh water until
just prior to testing. The temperature of water in which the cubes were submerged
was maintained at 35± 2 C. The specimens were cured for 28days.

3.9 Various lab tests on Hardened concrete:

There are two kinds of tests which are done on hardened concrete. These are non
destructive test and destructive tests. In non destructive test, the sample is not
destroyed and this test is very useful in determining the strength of existing
buildings or structures where as in destructive test a sample is made and then
destroyed to find out the strength of concrete.
Before undergoing destructive and non-destructive tests all the specimens were
heated at a temperatures of 400°C, 600°C and 800°C respectively with the help of a
electrical furnance for a duration of 60min. The electrical furnace used is shown in
fig.........
3.9.1 Electric furnace:
The electric furnace is used to heat the specimens. The maximum temperature
attained in this furnace is 1200°C. The inner depth of the furnace is 45mm. initially
the furnace is heated to the required temperature by switching on it and when the
required temperature is attained then 2 specimens of size 100x100x100mm were
put inside with the door closed tightly so that no air enters inside the furnance. The
specimens are kept for duration of 1 hour inside the furnace and later 3 specimens
are quenched in water for rapid cooling and the other 3 are kept aside for
atmospheric time. The 3 specimens which are quenched in water are removed after
60 minutes. Each time 2 specimens were kept at temperatures of 400°C, 600°C and
800°C and the same is repeated.

3.9.2 Test for strength of Concrete specimen:

3.9.2.1 Non Destructive Testing:

3.9.2.2 Rebound Hammer Test:

3.9.2.2.1 Fundamental Principle:

The Schmidt rebound hammer is principally a surface hardness tester. It works on

the principle that the rebound of an elastic mass depends on the hardness of the
surface against which the mass impinges. There is little apparent theoretical
relationship between the strength of concrete and the rebound number of the
hammer. However, within limits, empirical correlations have been established
between strength properties and the rebound number.

3.9.2.2.2 Equipment for Schmidt/Rebound Hammer Test:

The hammer weighs about 1.8 kg and is suitable for using in laboratory as well as
field. The main components include the outer body, the plunger, the hammer mass,
and the main spring. Other features include a latching mechanism that locks the
hammer mass to the plunger rod and a sliding rider to measure the rebound of the
hammer mass. The rebound distance is measured on an arbitrary scale marked from
10 to 100. The rebound distance is recorded as a “rebound number” corresponding
to the position of the rider on the scale.

3.9.2.2.3 General procedure:

With the hammer pushed hard against the concrete, the body is allowed to move
away from the concrete until the latch connects the hammer mass to the plunger.
The plunger is then held perpendicular to the concrete surface and the body pushed
towards the
Concrete. This movement extends the spring holding the mass to the body. When
the maximum extension of the spring is reached, the latch releases and the mass is
pulled towards the surface by the spring. The mass hits the shoulder of the plunger
rod and rebounds because the rod is pushed hard against the concrete. During
rebound the slide indicator travels with the hammer mass and stops at the maximum
distance the mass reaches after rebounding. A button on the side of the body is
pushed to lock the plunger into the retracted position and the rebound number is
read from a scale on the body.
Fig-4.6: Conducting Non-Destructive test on stressed specimen

3.9.3 Destructive Testing:

3.9.3.1 Compressive Strength:
The cube specimens were tested on compression testing machine of capacity 3000 KN
.The bearing surface of the machine was wiped off clean, and any loose sand or other
material removed from the surface of the specimen .The specimen was placed in the
machine in such a manner that the load was applied to opposite sides of the cubes as
casted i.e., not top and bottom surfaces. The axis of the specimen was carefully
aligned at the center of the loading frame. The load applied was increased
continuously at a constant rate until the resistance of the specimen to the increasing
load breaks down and no longer can be sustained. The maximum load applied on the
specimen was recorded. The details of a cube specimen under test is shown in Fig
3.12

Fig 3. 18 Details of cube Testing under TOTM.

4.0 LABORATORY OBSERVATIONS RECORDED:

4.1 TEST RESULTS COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH:

Table 3.6: Compressive strengths of M20 grade NC

Temperature Compressive Compressive Compressive

strength under air strength under strength under hot
cooling water quenching condition

Room temperature
26.00 26.00 26.00
400
50.33 21.66 39.00
600
26.80 21.03 17.63
800
11.36 16.36 15.00

Table 3.7:Compressive strengths of M20 grade SCC

Temperature Compressive Compressive Compressive

strength under air strength under strength under hot
cooling water quenching condition

Room temperature 27.56 27.56 27.56

400 17.71 22.27 18.77

600 9.12 17.12 18.18

800 6.05 6.54 10.75

Table 3.8:Compressive strengths of M40 grade NC

Temperature Compressive Compressive Compressive

strength under air strength under strength under hot
cooling water quenching condition

Room temperature 49.75 49.75 49.75

400 27.72 31.36 48.18

600 16.81 23.50 33.18

800 14.80 13.80 16.90

Table 3.9: Compressive strengths of M40 grade SCC

Temperature Compressive Compressive Compressive

strength under air strength under strength under hot
cooling water quenching condition

Room temperature 50.60 50.60 50.60

400 18.40 13.18 29.66

600 16.80 17.95 30.00

800 10.90 12.00 15.60

Temperature Compressive strength in Compressive strength in

air cooling(NC) air cooling(SCC)

Room temperature 26.00 27.56

400 50.33 17.71

600 26.80 9.12

800 11.36 6.05

Table 3.11: Comparison of Compressive strengths of M20 NC vs SCC under different
cooling regimes.

Temperature Compressive strength in Compressive strength in

water quenching (NC) water quenching (SCC)

Room temperature 26.00 27.56

400 21.66 22.27

600 21.03 17.12

800 16.36 6.54

Table 3.12: Comparison of Compressive strengths of M20 NC vs SCC under different

cooling regimes.

Temperature Compressive strength in Compressive strength in

hot condition (NC) hot hot condition (SCC)

Room temperature 26.00

27.56

400 39.00 18.77

600 17.63 18.18

800 15.00 10.75

Table 3.13: Comparison of Compressive strengths of M40 NC vs SCC under different

cooling regimes.

Temperature Compressive strength in Compressive strength in

air cooling(NC) air cooling(SCC)

Room temperature 49.75 50.60

400 27.72 18.40

600 16.81 16.80

800 14.80 10.90

Table-3.14: Comparison of Compressive strengths of M40 NC vs SCC under different
cooling regimes.

Temperature Compressive strength in Compressive strength in

water quenching (NC) water quenching (SCC)

Room temperature 49.75 50.6

400 31.36 13.18

600 23.5 17.95

800 13.8 12

Table-3.15: Comparisons of Compressive strengths of M20 NC vs SCC under

different cooling regimes.

Temperature Compressive strength in Compressive strength in

hot condition (NC) hot hot condition (SCC)

Room temperature 49.75 50.6

400 48.18 29.66

600 33.18 30.00

800 16.9 15.6

4.3 TEST RESULTS ON REBOUND NUMBER:

Table-3.16: Rebound numbers of M20 grade NC

Temperature Rebound number Rebound number Rebound number

under air cooling under water under hot condition
quenching

Room temperature 26 26 26

400 23 21 21

600 21 20 19

800 12 14 12

Table-3.17: Rebound numbers of M20 grade SCC

Temperature Rebound number Rebound number Rebound number

under air cooling under water under hot condition
quenching

Room temperature 28 28 28

400 12 13 10

600 11 10 10

800 10 10 10

Table-3.18: Rebound numbers of M40 grade NC

Temperature Rebound number Rebound number Rebound number

under air cooling under water under hot condition
quenching

Room temperature 45 45 45

400 25 20 22

600 13 16 14

800 10 10 10
Table-3.19: Rebound numbers of M40 grade SCC

Temperature Rebound number Rebound number Rebound number

under air cooling under water under hot condition
quenching

Room temperature 40 40 40

400 13 12 10

600 11 11 10

800 10 10 10

Table-3.20: Comparison of rebound numbers of M20 NC vs SCC under different

cooling regimes.

Temperature Rebound number in air Rebound number in air

cooling(NC) cooling(SCC)

Room temperature 26 28

400 23 12

600 21 11

800 12 10

Table-3.21: Comparison of rebound numbers of M20 NC vs SCC under different

cooling regimes.

Temperature Rebound number in water Rebound number in water

quenching (NC) quenching (SCC)

Room temperature 26 28

400 21 13

600 20 10

800 14 10
Table-3.22: Comparison of rebound numbers of M20 NC vs SCC under different
cooling regimes.

Temperature Rebound number in hot Rebound number in hot

condition (NC) hot condition (SCC)

Room temperature 26 28

400 21 10

600 19 10

800 12 10

Table-3.23: Comparison of rebound numbers of M40 NC vs SCC under different

cooling regimes.

Temperature Rebound number in air Rebound number in air

cooling(NC) cooling(SCC)

Room temperature 45 40

400 25 13

600 13 11

800 10 10

Table-3.24: Comparison of rebound numbers of M40 NC vs SCC under different

cooling regimes.

Temperature Rebound number in water Rebound number in water

quenching (NC) quenching (SCC)

Room temperature 45 40

400 20 12

600 16 11

800 10 10
Table 3.25: Comparison of rebound numbers of M40 NC vs SCC under different
cooling regimes.

Temperature Rebound number in hot Rebound number in hot

condition (NC) hot condition (SCC)

Room temperature 45 40

400 22 10

600 14 10

800 10 10

M20

Mass loss under air Mass loss under Mass loss under
cooling water quenching hot condition
Temperature
before after before after before After

Room temperature

400

600

800

M20 SCC

Mass loss under air Mass loss under Mass loss under
cooling water quenching hot condition
Temperature
before after before after before after

Room temperature

400
 600

800

M40

Mass loss under air Mass loss under Mass loss under
cooling water quenching hot condition
Temperature
before after before after before after

Room temperature

400

600

800

M40 SCC

Mass loss under air Mass loss under Mass loss under
cooling water quenching hot condition
Temperature
before after before after before after

Room temperature

400

600

800
5.0 Results and discussion

5.1 Graphs representing Compressive Strengths:

The response curves for various grades of concrete, with different cooling regimes at
different elevated temperatures are displayed below:

Curves plotted with values taken from table no: 3.6

60 M20
Compressive Strength,Mpa

50

40

30
Air Cooling
20 Water Quenching
hot state
10

0
0 200 400 600 800 1000
Temperature,°c

Fig- Compressive Strength Vs Temperature for M20 grade NC

Curves plotted with values taken from table no: 3.7

M20 SCC
60
Compressive Strength,Mpa

50

40

30 Air Cooling
Water Quenching
20
Immediate Fire
10

0
0 500 1000
Temperature,°c

Fig- Compressive Strength Vs Temperature for M20 grade SCC

Curves plotted with values taken from table no: 3.8

60
Compressive Strength,Mpa M40
50

40

30

20 Air Cooling
Water Quenching
10
Hot State
0
0 500 1000
temperature,°c

Fig- Compressive Strength Vs Temperature for M40 grade NC

Curves plotted with values taken from table no:3.9

60
M40 SCC
Compressive Strength,Mpa

50
40
30
Air cooling
20
Water Quenching
10
Hot State
0
0 500 1000
Temperature,°c

Fig- Compressive Strength Vs Temperature for M40 grade SCC

Curves plotted with values taken from table no: 3.10

M20 NC VS SCC
60
Compressive stresngth,Mpa

50
40
30
Air Cooling Nc
20
Air Cooling SCC
10
0
0 500 1000
Temperature, °c

Fig- Compressive Strength Vs Temperature for M20 grade NC and SCC

under Air Cooling

Curves plotted with values taken from table no: 3.11

M20 NC VS SCC
60
Compressive strength,Mpa

50
40
Water Quenching
30
Nc
20
Water Quenching
10 SCC

0
0 500 1000
Temperature, °c

Fig- Compressive Strength Vs Temperature for M20 grade NC and SCC

under Water Quenching
Curves plotted with values taken from table no: 3.12

M20 NC VS SCC
60
ompressive strength,Mpa
50

40

30
Hot State, NC
20 Hot State, SCC
10

0
0 500 1000
Temperature, °c

Fig- Compressive Strength Vs Temperature for M20 grade NC and SCC

under Hot Condition

Curves plotted with values taken from table no: 3.13

M40 NC VS SCC
60
Compressive strength,Mpa

50
40
30
Air Cooling NC
20
Air Cooling SCC
10
0
0 500 1000
Temperature, °c

Fig- Compressive Strength Vs Temperature for M40 grade NC and SCC

under Air Cooling
Curves plotted with values taken from table no: 3.14

M40 NC VS SCC
60

Compressive Strength,Mpa
50
40
30 Water Quenching
NC
20
Water Quenching,
10
SCC
0
0 500 1000
Temperature, °c

Fig- Compressive Strength Vs Temperature for M40 grade NC and SCC

under Water Quenching

Curves plotted with values taken from table no: 3.15

M40 NC VS SCC
60
Compressive stresngth,Mpa

50

40

30
Hot State, Nc
20 Hot State, SCC
10

0
0 500 1000
Temperature, °c

Fig- Compressive Strength Vs Temperature for M40 grade NC and SCC

under Hot Condition
5.2 Graphs representing rebound number:
Curves plotted with values taken from table no: 3.16

60
M20
Rebound number 50

40

30
air cooling
20
water quenching
10
Hot State
0
0 500 1000
Temperature, °c

Fig- Rebound Number Vs Temperature for M20 grade NC

Curves plotted with values taken from table no: 3.17

60
M20 SCC
50
Rebound Number

40

30

20 air cooling
water quenching
10
Hot State
0
0 200 400 600 800 1000
Temperature,°c

Fig- Rebound Number Vs Temperature for M20 grade SCC

Curves plotted with values taken from table no: 3.18

M40
60
50
Rebound Number

40
30
20 air cooling
10 water quenching
0 Hot State
0 500 1000
Temperature, °c

Fig- Rebound Number Vs Temperature for M40 grade NC

Curves plotted with values taken from table no: 3.19

60
M40 SCC
50
Rebound Number

40
30
air cooling
20
water quenching
10
Hot State
0
0 500 1000
Temperature, °c

Fig- Rebound Number Vs Temperature for M40 grade SCC

Curves plotted with values taken from table no: 3.20

M20 NC vs SCC
60
Rebound Number 50
40
30
20
air cooling NC
10
air cooling SCC
0
0 500 1000
Temperature, °c

Fig- Rebound Number Vs Temperature for M20 grade NC and SCC

under Air Cooling

Curves plotted with values taken from table no: 3.21

M20 NC vs SCC
60
50
Rebound Number

40
water quenching
30
NC
20 water quenching
10 SCC

0
0 500 1000
Temperature, °c

Fig- Rebound Number Vs Temperature for M20 grade NC and SCC

under Water Quenching
Curves plotted with values taken from table no: 3.22

M20 NC vs SCC
60

50
Rebound Number
40

30
Hot State, NC
20
Hot State, SCC
10

0
0 500 1000
Temperature, °c

Fig- Rebound Number Vs Temperature for M20 grade NC and SCC

under Hot Condition

Curves plotted with values taken from table no: 3.23

60
M40 NC vs SCC
50
Rebound Number

40

30
air cooling NC
20
air cooling scc
10

0
0 500 1000
Temperature, °c

Fig- Rebound Number Vs Temperature for M40 grade NC and SCC

under Air Cooling
Curves plotted with values taken from table no: 3.24

M40 NC vs SCC Rebound

60 number
50
Rebound number

40

30

20 water quenching
NC
10
water quenching
0 SCC
0 500 1000
Temperature, °c

Fig- Rebound Number Vs Temperature for M40 grade NC and SCC

under Water Quenching

Curves plotted with values taken from table no: 3.25

M40 NC vs SCC rebound number

60

50
Rebound Number

40

30
Hot State, NC
20 Hot State,SCC

10

0
0 500 1000
Temperature, °c

Fig- Rebound Number Vs Temperature for M40 grade NC and SCC

under Hot Condition
Analysis and Discussion of results:

In the present investigation the study of the compressive behaviour of the NC and
SCC has been carried out. The strength results obtained for different concretes and
different grades with different cooling regimes have been presented in table no’s:
3.26 and 3.27. The percent of strength loss were calculated for different concretes
with different cooling regimes. The strength loss percent values are presented in
table no’s: 3.26 and 3.27.The results of NDT test i.e. the rebound number values
obtained for different concretes and different cooling regimes are presented in table
no’s: 3.28 and 3.29.

The discussions of test results on the following aspects are presented:

1) Effect of elevated temperature on compressive strength.

2) Effect of cooling regime on compressive strength.
3) Effect elevated temperature on surface characteristics of concrete.

General observations:

 Both NC and SCC specimens when they are subjected to elevated

temperatures a small surface cracks were observed, the magnitude and
extent of cracks are somewhat negligible up to 400°c. As the temperature
goes above 400°c the magnitude and extent of surface cracks has increased
for both NC and SCC.
 A colour change (grey to light pink) of surface of the specimen has been
observed at higher temperatures. The change of colour may be due to the
desiccation of water from the surface of the concrete specimen.
 It was observed that the magnitude and extent of cracking was more in case
of SCC compared to normal concrete. At high temperatures of exposure there
is an effect on dimensional stability of the specimens, the sharp edges of the
specimen become blunt.

Figure no so and so.......shows the appearance of concrete specimens at elevated

temperatures.
Effect of elevated temperatures on type of concrete:

 The compressive strength results of NC and SCC subjected to different

exposures of temperature presented in table no’s: 3.26 and 3.27. Clearly
indicate that there is a reduction in compressive strength with temperatures
of exposure. The reduction in compressive strength with temperature
occurred both in NC and SCC. The variation in the compressive strength of NC
and SCC with temperature shown in figure so n so......indicates a non linear
variation.
 The percent of loss of strength with temperature given in column no’s: 7, 14,
21 and 28 of table no’s: 3.26 and 3.27 reveals that the SCC has suffered more
loss of strength with temperature compared to the NC.
 The average loss in strength in NC is about 16.6%, 25.5% and 45% at 400°c,
600°c and 800°c respectively, in case of SCC the average compressive
strength loss presented in table no: 3.26 is observed to be 29.2%,45.6% and
71.4% at 400°c, 600°c and 800°c respectively.
 In general the SCC mixers normally have high paste to aggregate content
compared to NC, hence more loss of strength in SCC may be attributed to be
occurrence of micro cracking because of thermal incompatibility of hardened
cement paste and aggregates.

Effect of elevated temperature on grade of concrete:

 The compressive strength test results presented in table no’s: 3.26 and 3.27
show that percent loss of strength with elevated temperatures has increased
with increasing grade of concrete. The M40 grade concrete (both NC and
SCC) shows higher percent of strength loss than M20 grade concrete. In M20
grade normal concrete the percent of strength loss is about 16.6%, 25.5%
and 45% at 400°c, 600°c and 800°c respectively, where as similar concrete
of M40 grade has shown a percent loss in strength of 28%, 50.6% and
69.4% at 400°c, 600°c and 800°c respectively .
  In case of SCC of M20 grade the percent loss in strength is 29.1%, 45.6%
and 71.4% at 400°c, 600°c and 800°c respectively, where as SCC of M40
grade the percent strength loss observed to be 52.9%, 57%, and 74%
respectively at 400°c, 600°c and 800°c .Hence high strength concretes have
higher percent of strength loss than lower strength concretes, however this
difference becomes somewhat less significance at temperatures above 600c.
 In case of M20 grade concrete the increased in strength was observed at
400°c, this may be either a freak result or there may be intensifying hydration
with temperature to 400°c. This process is similar to the strength increase
behaviour normally observed in steam curing. The increasing content of
hydration products occurring in temperature range 100-300°c (note that the
bound water starts to be released at 180°c) leads to an increase of
compressive strength.

Effect of cooling regime on compressive strength of concrete:

 In this investigation the specimens are tested at

1. Room temperature (<40°c)
2. Hot state
3. After water quenching

4. Air cooling.

 These testing states are referred as cooling regimes, the strength results
presented in table no’s: 3.26 and 3.27 reveals that the testing after air cooling
of specimens resulted in more loss of strength followed by testing after water
quenching and testing at hot condition.
 In case of normal concrete (M40) subjected to 600°c the percent loss in
strength observed to be 33%, 52.7% and 66.2% for the cooling regimes 2, 3
and 4 respectively.
 In case of SCC (M40) subjected to 600°c the percent loss in strength
observed to be 40%,64.5% and 66.7% for the cooling regimes 2,3,and 4
respectively, however again at high temperatures of exposure the difference
in percent loss in strength between different cooling regimes reduces, for
 example for NC of M40 grade subjected to 800°c has shown percent strength
loss to be 66%, 72.1% and 70.1% for the cooling regimes 2, 3 and 4
respectively, where as in case of SCC of M40 grade subjected to 800°c loss of
strength obtained as 68%,76.2% and 78%.

Effect of elevate temperature on hardness of the surface of the

concrete:

 In general the surface hardness as represented by the rebound number value

in NDT indirectly represents the likely spalling or loosening of surface of
concrete.
 The rebound number values presented in table no’s: 3.28 and 3.29 and its
variation represented in fig so and so........ indicate that the rebound number
values have decreased with elevated temperatures both in NC and SCC. This
gives an indication that there may be increased risk of spalling in concretes
with elevated temperature.
 The NDT test results indicated more loss of hardness (or increased risk of
spalling ) was observed in case of SCC at NC at temperatures. This behaviour
may be attributed to the high thermal incompatibility between different
phases of materials in SCC.
 The hardness of surface as indicated by the rebound number was low for
concrete specimens at hot condition; however there is an increase of rebound
number of the concretes tested after water quenching/air cooling.
 This means water quenching and air cooling resulted in increase of surface
hardness.
6.0 CONCLUSIONS:

 In general the compressive strength of concrete is decreased, when the

concrete is subjected to elevated temperatures.

 The decrease in compressive strength, with elevated temperature is more in

case of SCC compared to NC irrespective of cooling regimes.

 In case of NC the strength decrease on an average is observed to be 16.6%,

25.5% and 45% at 400°c, 600°c and 800°c respectively, where as in the case
of SCC, the compressive strength decrease observed to be 29.1%, 45.6% and
71.4% at 400°c, 600°c and 800°c respectively.

 In general the percent decrease in strength, with elevated temperatures has

increased with increase in grade of concrete i.e. higher strength concretes
have higher percent loss in strength than lower strength concrete. However
the difference becomes less significant at temperatures greater than 400°c.

 Of the three states of ‘testing of specimens’ i.e.

1. Testing after air cooling

2. Testing after water quenching

3. Testing in hot state,

Normally referred to as cooling regimes, more percent decrease in strength

was observed in case of ‘testing after air cooling’ in both NC and SCC.

 Testing after water quenching resulted in higher loss in strength compared to

the strength obtained in testing at hot condition.

 Rebound number(RN) represents the hardness of the surface and indirectly

represents the likely spalling or loosening of surface of concrete.
  In general more loss in hardness (or increased risk of spalling) was observed
in case of ‘SCC’ compared to ‘NC’ at elevated temperatures.

 The hardness of surface was low for the specimen at hot state, followed by
the other states i.e. water quenching and air cooling.

6.1 SCOPE FOR FUTURE INVESTIGATION:

The present investigation is a pilot study carried out to understand the compressive
strength behaviour of different concretes subjected to elevated temperatures. The
investigation may be extended considering the following aspects:

 Mechanical behaviour of different types of concretes such as NC, SCC, FRC,

RAC etc.

 Effect of high strength concrete i.e. strength ranges upto and above 40Mpa.

 The effect of different periods of water quenching and different periods of air
cooling.

 The effect of presence of stress on the strength behaviour of concrete at

elevated temperatures.