Critical review of the use of fiber-reinforced concrete against spalling
Résumé
The current paper aims to provide a critical review of the fire-induced spalling of concrete structures, its socio-economic and environmental impacts, and to establish a roadmap towards designing spalling-sustainable concrete structures utilizing synthetic and natural fibers. Spalling-induced damages of concrete structures during a fire are a serious threat to the fire performance of these structures. Such damages not only reduce the load-bearing capability of concrete members and deteriorate their mechanical properties but also could lead to the collapse of the entire structure. These damages are also a significant source of errors in fire-safety designs of structures if ignored. Among a handful of preventative measures to decrease the magnitude of spalling, the application of fibers is the most efficient alternative. Nevertheless, an in-depth understanding of the mechanism by which synthetic and natural fibers protect concrete members against spalling during a fire, influential parameters on their performance, and introducing new types of fibers with superior efficiency to combat fire-induced spalling still require further research.