Comprehensive Review of Techniques for Assessing Fire-Exposed Concrete: Principles, Applications, and Integration Strategies

Abstract

Reinforced concrete structures, which generally resist high temperatures well and usually do not suffer destruction, therefore require an assessment of the concrete’s condition after a fire. This review explores various techniques for assessing Fire Exposed Concrete (FEC) and provides comprehensive insights into their application by examining the principles, advantages, drawbacks, and feasibility of these methods. This comprehensive analysis aims to enhance assessment effectiveness and improve outcomes in restoring the integrity and safety of fire-damaged concrete structures. Overall, this review contributes to the literature by systematically outlining assessment techniques and providing valuable insights for researchers, engineers, and practitioners in selecting suitable methods and aiding informed decision-making on repair strategies. Samples extracted utilizing core procedures may be subjected to laboratory studies, especially non-linear approaches. The bibliometric analysis concludes significant linkages and trends in study areas including fire resistance and Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) of FEC are presented by analyzing keyword networks during the last 20 years. With more than 40 citations to back up their findings, highlighted the importance of and relationships between important subjects in this discipline. Techniques such as crack density measurement, indirect UPV, impact echo, Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR), petrography, Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) may be performed to determine the damage depth of concrete subjected to fire; however, caution is advised as each approach has its limitations.