Compressive and splitting tensile strength of autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) containing perlite aggregate and polypropylene fiber subjected to high temperatures

This paper presents the results of an experimental study on the residual compressive and splitting tensile strength of autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) containing perlite and polypropylene (PP) fiber subjected to high temperatures. Cylinder specimens were subjected to various temperature ranges of 100, 200, 400, 800, and 1,000°C. The mixtures were prepared with AAC cementitious materials containing perlite at 15%, 20%, and 30% sand replacement. The polypropylene fiber content of 0, 0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, and 2% by volume was also added to the mixture. The results showed that the unheated compressive and splitting tensile strength of AACs containing PP fiber were not significantly higher than those containing no PP fiber. Furthermore, the presence of PP fiber was not more effective for residual compressive strength than splitting tensile strength. The 30% perlite replacement of sand gave the highest strength. Based on the results, it can be concluded that addition of PP fiber did not significantly promote the residual strength of AAC specimens subjected to high temperatures.