Evaluation of fire performance of prefabricated concrete buildings in Turkey

Abstract

Two different large-scale industrial structures that were destroyed by fires in 2011 and 2012 in Turkey were examined. The structural framework in the first structure was constructed as prefabricated concrete, while a prefabricated concrete–steel (hybrid) was the structural framework in the second. The post-fire performance of the structures was evaluated according to the structural system properties of the buildings and tests on concrete core and steel reinforcement samples obtained from the structures. Since the fire durations of the two buildings examined were slightly different, in addition to the structural framework differences, material test results were comparatively interpreted for the two structures. The concrete used in the building exposed to the longer fire duration suffered a substantial loss in mechanical properties, the concrete cover in the reinforced concrete elements failed completely, and there was a significant loss in the yield strength of the steel reinforcement. In the second structure, which experienced a fire of shorter duration, although the concrete cover had failed similarly to the first case, there was not a substantial loss in the mechanical properties of the reinforcement and concrete. It was observed that damage to the steel structural framework in the second structure (a prefabricated concrete–steel hybrid) triggered damage in the prefabricated concrete system. The precautions that need to be taken in terms of fire, especially in industrial structures, were evaluated based on either the load-carrying system or the section, and suggestions for improvements are made.

Residual Compressive Strength Prediction Model for Concrete Subject to High Temperatures Using Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity

“…Thus, evaluating the safety of such degraded concrete is critical because strength degradation may result in the collapse of large buildings with relatively large members. In addition, decisions based on accurate safety evaluation, such as proper repair and demolition, have positive economic effects [ 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 ]. In particular, high-rise buildings may have problems owing to long-term and continuous loads [ 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 ].…”

A Study on Correlation between Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity Method and Coarse Aggregate for Estimating Residual Modulus of Elasticity of Concrete Exposed to High Temperatures

“…In addition, long-term exposure to high temperatures causes porosity and significant cracking because of the chemical decomposition of the concrete matrix, resulting in significant deterioration in the structural performance [2][3][4]. Therefore, this warrants the accurate measurement of the mechanical properties of concrete after exposure to fire, which can enable the accurate assessment of repair or demolition, thereby saving cost and time, as well as reducing additional human casualties and property damage caused by secondary collapse [5][6][7].…”

Dynamic Behavior of a Precast and Partial Steel Joint under Various Shear Span-to-Depth Ratios

“…Compared with traditional cast-in situ construction, a precast concrete structure possesses higher business competitiveness due to its environmental protection, economy and excellent mechanical properties [ 1 ]. For example, in Turkey, precast concrete structures have been widely used in the construction industry [ 2 ]. Furthermore, precast concrete structures possess a bright future in improving the seismic performance of buildings.…”