Combined Effect of Natural Pozzolana and Steel Fibre on the Mechanical Properties of Normal Concrete Subjected to a High Temperature

The objective of this work is to study the effects of high temperatures on the compressive strength, flexural tensile strength, and toughness indices of ordinary concrete reinforced with 0.5% steel fibre. Natural pozzolana was used as a partial cement replacement with two levels of 15% and 30% to improve the characteristics of concrete at 28 and 90 days. The samples produced were subjected to heat exposure of 800°C in a furnace. The results indicate a good correlation between the evolution of the concrete’s mechanical characteristics and the duration of the curing. The experimental results indicate that using natural pozzolana with steel fibers significantly improves the mechanical properties of concrete. Also, natural pozzolana has shown a positive role in the concrete matrix before and after heating. In conclusion, this research highlights the significant potential of utilizing natural pozzolana for the production of sustainable and environmentally friendly concrete.