Stress-Strain Curves for High Strength Concrete at Elevated Temperatures

The effects of high temperature on the strength and stress-strain relationship of high strength concrete (HSC) were investigated. Stress-strain curve tests were conducted at various temperatures (20, 100, 200, 400, 600, and 800°C) for four types of HSC. The variables considered in the experimental study included concrete strength, type of aggregate, and the addition of steel fibers. Results from stress-strain curve tests show that plain HSC exhibits brittle properties below 600°C, and ductility above 600°C. HSC with steel fibers exhibits ductility for temperatures over 400°C. The compressive strength of HSC decreases by about a quarter of its room temperature strength within the range of 100–400°C. The strength further decreases with the increase of temperature and reaches about a quarter of its initial strength at 800°C. The strain at peak loading increases with temperature, from 0.003 at room temperature to 0.02 at 800°C. Further, the increase in strains for carbonate aggregate HSC is larger than that for siliceous aggregate HSC.