Critical factors governing the fire performance of high strength concrete systems

High strength concrete (HSC), is being increasingly used in a number of building applications, where structural fire safety is one of the major design considerations. Many research studies clearly indicate that the fire performance of HSC is different from that of normal strength concrete (NSC) and that HSC may not exhibit same level of performance (as NSC) in fire. This paper discusses the material, structural and fire characteristics that influence the performance of HSC under fire conditions. Data from earlier experimental and numerical studies is used to illustrate the impact the concrete (material) mix design and structural detailing (design) has on fire performance of HSC systems. An understanding of various factors influencing fire performance will aid in developing appropriate solutions for mitigating spalling and enhancing fire resistance of HSC members.