Development and performance evaluation of heat-resistant concrete under varying temperature conditions

Abstract

In industries where thermal endurance is critical, such as metallurgy, power generation, and construction, heat-resistant concrete (HRC) represents a specialised form of concrete engineered for high-temperature applications and thermal cycling. Traditional concrete, when exposed to elevated temperatures, undergoes significant morphological and chemical transformations that lead to disintegration and a reduction in mechanical strength, as the thermal, mechanical, and deformation properties of concrete govern the response of structural elements to fire exposure. In this investigation, three distinct concrete mix designs were prepared and subjected to controlled heating, and their compressive strengths were evaluated against those of the control concrete to assess performance under thermal stress. The study also examined the composition, characteristics, and potential applications of HRC by exploring the use of various binders, additives, and aggregates aimed at enhancing thermal stability. Basalt aggregates, combined with high-temperature-resistant binders such as Portland slag cement, were employed as primary constituents. The results demonstrated that concrete containing basalt aggregates exhibited superior thermal performance compared with natural aggregates, with a binder content of 420 kg/m³ showing optimal strength retention across all curing and heating conditions. Consequently, the investigation confirmed the applicability of HRC for industrial construction environments exposed to high temperatures of 105, 350, and 700 °C.