Loading...
Citations
Altmetric:
Abstract
Although concrete tunnel structures can lose strength and long-term durability due to fire,
literature on the remaining capacity of structures after fire events is scattered, and few published
post-fire inspection protocols exist, especially for tunnel structures. This project investigates the
deleterious effects of fire on concrete tunnel structures and how the extent and degree of fire
damage can be assessed, with the goal of developing a rapid inspection protocol/checklist for
inspectors to assess the relative safety of a tunnel structure after fire. The project includes an
extensive literature review, covering published standards, technical reports, academic papers, and
a survey of post-fire inspection practices at other state DOTs and transit organizations. Topics
include residual mechanical properties of concrete, steel, and concrete/steel bond after fire;
residual strength and stiffness of structural members after fire; existing inspection tools and
methods for assessing concrete structures after fire; and repair methods for fire-damaged concrete
structures. Preliminary experimental testing outcomes are presented, including setup of a new
heat system; procurement of sample specimens for testing; thermal and physical testing of
specimens; and evaluation of results. Finally, recommendations for a second phase of
experimental testing are presented.
Type
Technical Report
Date
2021-04