Coupled effects of stress and temperature changes on concrete structures

Confirmation seminar presented by Duc Pham

Concrete is the most commonly used construction material due to its many desirable characteristics. However, fire events can lead to explosive spalling of the concrete cover, resulting in possible serious human and structural consequences. The challenge of predicting spalling has hindered the development of robust models for the response of concrete structures to fire.

Another unique performance characteristic of concrete at elevated temperatures is ‘transient creep’ or load-induced thermal strain (LITS), which may significantly impact concrete behaviour at both material and structural levels. Nonetheless, our current understanding of LITS, especially under realistic thermal conditions, remains inadequate.

Using a combined theoretical, experimental and numerical approach, this study aims to further examine the coupled effects of stress and temperature changes on concrete structures. Key performance characteristics investigated include the load-deformation responses, LITS and spalling, as well as their major influencing factors.