
This article provides some basic information on effects of fire on concrete, various condition evaluation methods, and show findings from a case study of a fire exposed concrete foundation in California, and informs construction professionals that fire exposed concrete structures can be repaired without destroying and re-building the structure.

Under certain conditions, however, concrete may suffer significant distress. One such condition is when fire is caused by long term burning due to a fuel source in direct contact with concrete. However, in contrast to other construction materials such as timber and steel, concrete’s superior fire resistance allows it to repair in-situ or with partial replacement as compared to complete demolition and reconstruction. However, thorough investigation and testing is required to assess the concrete’s structural damage to determine its condition as well as that of the reinforcing steel before it is considered for repair or reuse.
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