Experimental investigation on fibre-reinforced lightweight aggregate concrete beams at elevated temperature

• Main Author: Goh, Jamie Po Yan
• Other Authors: Tan Kang Hai
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: Nanyang Technological University 2023
• Subjects: Engineering::Civil engineering::Structures and design
• Online Access: https://hdl.handle.net/10356/172817
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

This research delves into the critical issue of structural integrity during fire incidents and explores the application of lightweight aggregate concrete (LWAC) in the construction sector. Exposure to fire can result in structural components weakening, potentially leading to deformation and failures with grave consequences for both structures and human safety. To emphasize the gravity of the matter, we reference data from the Singapore Civil Defence Force, highlighting the frequent occurrence of fire-related incidents in a compact nation like Singapore. LWAC is attracting attention within the construction industry owing to its sustainable attributes, including reduced weight and enhanced thermal insulation. Nonetheless, concerns exist about its shear resistance, particularly in fire-related situations. Shear failure, a form of sudden and often disastrous structural collapse, occurs when beams are unable to withstand forces acting at right angles to their longitudinal axis. Ensuring adequate shear resistance is vital to avert such catastrophic failures. While previous research has explored the use of fibre reinforcements to enhance the mechanical properties of standard-weight concrete, investigations in this domain are limited. Moreover, the focus of shear studies has mainly centred on simply supported beams. This research aims to bridge this gap by investigating the shear behaviour of fibre-reinforced lightweight aggregate concrete (FRLWAC) under both standard and fire testing conditions. The primary objective is to evaluate the fire safety performance of FRLWAC, with a particular focus on its shear capacity. The unique aspect of this study lies in conducting a fire test on FRLWAC under shear.