Behavior of Continuous Flat Slab Exposed to Fire

This paper investigates the behavior of reinforced concrete continuous flat slabs after exposure to fire through experimental and theoretical analysis investigations were made. In the experimental part a series of tests carried out, to evaluate the effect of fire on the mechanical properties of concrete including a number of cubs and cylinders. Indirect fire exposure experiments are performed in accordance to ASTM 119-95a fire exposure curve. Three levels of temperature were investigated of 200°C, 400°C and 600°C. Exposure durations were 30, 45 and 60 minutes. Hence, structural-thermal Finite Elements analysis as a theoretical study on reinforced concrete continuous flat slabs, were carried out to study the behavior of flat slab. The mechanical properties of concrete dropped with increasing fire and endurance. The loss of failure load and bending rigidity are reduced due to the effect of fire. These losses were found to be slight in 200°C and dramatic at 600 °C. The exposure of concrete to fire has a significant influence on the mechanical properties of the continuous members.