An Analysis on Various Mechanical Properties and Applications of High Performance Concrete: A Historical Perspective | Original Article

ABSTRACT:

The focus on High Performance concrete (HPC) has immensely increased due to utilization of large quantity of concrete, thereby leading to the development of infrastructure Viz., Buildings, Industrial Structures, Hydraulic Structures, Bridges and Highways etc. This paper includes the detailed study on the recent developments in High Performance Concrete, stressing more on the earthquake prone areas. It highlights the advantages and importance of High Performance concrete over conventional concrete and also includes effect of Mineral and Chemical Admixtures used to improve performance of concrete. This paper deals with the development of engineering database on the changes in the mechanical properties of high performance concretes mixtures when exposed to high temperature up to 1000oC. The results of an experimental investigation in to the effects of high temperature on the residual compressive and tensile strengths for high performance concretes made with ordinary Portland cement are presented. Concrete specimens were heated in an electric furnace to varying temperatures up to 1000oC and the change in compressive and tensile strength, weight, ultrasonic pulse velocity and rebound number were determined. The heated specimens were subjected to sudden cooling in water and to slow cooling in air. The results showed that the compressive and tensile strengths, pulse velocity and rebound number were decreased with the increase in exposed temperature. The weight loss from concrete increased non- linearly with the maximum exposed temperature. Sudden cooling caused reduction in concrete strength.