The influence of the physical and chemical properties of hardened cement paste on the heat‐induced explosive spalling of concrete

This paper summarizes the results of two research projects that were carried out between 2016 and 2022 at the VDZ (Verein Deutscher Zementwerke) in Düsseldorf. The objective of the projects was to examine the influence of the cement type as well as the physical and chemical properties of the hardened cement paste on the explosive spalling of concrete in the case of fire. A particular focus was set on studying the way in which the concrete's moisture content contributes to the spalling phenomenon. The findings obtained for the different concretes examined in the dedicated experimental program were evaluated to better explain the mechanisms causing the heat‐induced explosive spalling of concrete.