Proposed models for concrete thermal expansion with different aggregate types and saturation conditions

Abstract

The Coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) for concrete is one of the most important parameters that affect the fire performance of concrete. Concrete’s coefficient of thermal expansion is controlled by the CTE of each component of the concrete mix, as the coarse aggregates represent the largest portion in the concrete mix, it is considered to have a significant effect on the CTE for concrete. Another factor that affects concrete’s CTE significantly is the saturation condition (saturated, partially saturated and oven dried condition). This paper presents reviews for available tests results that have been conducted on the CTE for concrete at elevated temperatures for different aggregates type, these results are used to evaluate the models proposed by ASCE model and Euro Code. The results included the coefficient of thermal expansion for different types of aggregates in different saturation conditions (saturated, partially saturated and oven dried condition). It is found that there is a significant difference between the experimental results and Euro code carbonate model, Euro code siliceous model and ASCE. New models were proposed for predicting CTE of different types of aggregate under different saturation condition. The newly proposed models give better prediction compared to Euro code and ASCE model.