An in-depth examination of fire-related damages in reinforced concrete structures-A review

Ensuring fire safety measures is a fundamental necessity in the design of buildings to safeguard the well-being of their occupants. Fire-related incidents pose a substantial danger to the integrity of reinforced concrete structures, even though concrete itself is inherently noncombustible. The exposure of concrete to high temperatures can lead to the deterioration of its characteristics related to chemical, physical and mechanical aspects. This review paper provides an in-depth examination of fire-related damages in reinforced concrete structures. With a focus on enhancing understanding and mitigation strategies, the paper explores the complexities surrounding fires in these structures, which serve as homes and functional spaces for numerous people over their planned lifespan. Key objectives include investigating how reinforced concrete structures respond post-fire and exploring assessment techniques for high-rise structures affected by fire damage. Through analysis of various damage phases and identification parameters, the review offers insights into post-fire structural behavior. Additionally, the paper presents future suggestions aimed at improving active and operational conditions, thereby contributing to the advancement of fire safety in reinforced concrete structures. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2024.