US EPA

6873249 

Journal Article 

Mechanical properties and microstructure of high strength concrete containing polypropylene fibres exposed to temperatures up to 200 degrees C 

Noumowe, A; , 

2005 

Yes 

Cement and Concrete Research
ISSN: 0008-8846 

PERGAMON-ELSEVIER SCIENCE LTD 

OXFORD 

2192-2198 

10.1016/j.cemconres.2005.03.007 

WOS:000233499900017 

High strength concrete has been used in situations where it may be exposed to elevated temperatures. Numerous authors have shown the significant contribution of polypropylene fibre to the spalling resistance of high strength concrete. This investigation develops some important data on the mechanical properties and microstructure of high strength concrete incorporating polypropylene fibre exposed to elevated temperature up to 200 degrees C. When polypropylene fibre high strength concrete is heated up to 170 degrees C, fibres readily melt and volatilise, creating additional porosity and small channels in the concrete. DSC and TG analysis showed the temperature ranges of the decomposition reactions in the high strength concrete. SEM analysis showed supplementary pores and small channels created in the concrete due to fibre melting. Mechanical tests showed small changes in compressive strength, modulus of elasticity and splitting tensile strength that could be due to polypropylene fibre melting. (C) 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.