Studies on Effect of Refractory Chemicals on Cement Mortar

Concrete has remarkable fire resistance properties. In the case of fire, it is found that the concrete affected by fire depends to a great extent on the intensity and duration of fire. Previous experience has shown that concrete structures are likely to have a good fire rating than structures made of other materials. Nevertheless, concrete undergoes important chemical and physical changes, starting at 400°C - 500°C. As calcium hydroxide and other hydration products start to decompose, concrete tends to lose its strength, typically around 600°C - 700°C. In order to improve the high temperature properties of concrete, admixtures can be used in concrete. In the following, a study on the effects of different admixtures on the properties of concrete at high temperature is presented.