Optimization of Post-Fire Residual Compressive Strenghth of Concrete by Taguchi Method Available to Purchase

This paper presents results of an experimental study undertaken to optimize the residual compressive strength of heated concrete with respect to various mix design parameters using the Taguchi method. The design of experiments (DoE) was carried out by standard L9 (3⁴) orthogonal array (OA) of four factors with three material parameter levels. The factors considered were water-cement ratio, cement content, super-plasticizer dosage and fine aggregate content. The specimens were heated up to 200°C, 400°C, 600°C and 800°C target temperatures and were subsequently tested under axial compressive loads in cooled condition. Based on the results, the material parameter responses of optimum performance characteristics were analyzed by statistical analysis of signal to noise ratio (S/N) and analysis of variance (ANOVA) techniques to maximize the post-fire residual compressive strength of concrete. The results indicate that the best level of control factors paid their own contribution of compressive strength at various elevated temperatures. The confirmation tests corroborated the theoretical optimum test conditions.