Numerical analysis of spalling of concrete cover at high temperature

In the present paper a 3D thermo-hygro-mechanical model for concrete is used to study explosive spalling of concrete cover at high temperature. For a given boundary conditions the distribution of moisture, pore pressure, temperature, stresses and strains are calculated by employing a threedimensional transient finite element analysis. The used thermo-hygro-mechanical model accounts for the interaction between hygral and thermal properties of concrete. Moreover, these properties are coupled with the mechanical properties of concrete, i.e., it is assumed that the mechanical properties (damage) have an effect on distribution of moisture (pore pressure) and temperature. Stresses in concrete are calculated by employing temperature dependent microplane model. To study explosive spalling of concrete cover, a 3D finite element analysis of a concrete slab, which was locally exposed to high temperature, is performed. It is shown that relatively high pore pressure in concrete can cause explosive spalling. The numerical results indicate that the governing parameter that controls spalling is permeability of concrete. It is also shown that possible buckling of a concrete layer in the spalling zone increases the risk for explosive spalling.