What does spalling indicate in fire effects on concrete?

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Spalling in concrete is indicative of the loss of surface material, which occurs as a result of exposure to high temperatures during a fire. When concrete is subjected to intense heat, the expansion of the materials and the formation of steam can create internal pressures that exceed the tensile strength of the concrete. This leads to chunks or layers of the concrete surface breaking away or flaking off, a phenomenon known as spalling.

This process not only affects the structural integrity of the concrete but also can expose any reinforcing steel or rebar within, increasing the risk of deterioration from heat and potential corrosion. While increased temperatures and cooling processes do play roles in how concrete behaves in fire conditions, the primary aspect identified by spalling is the actual physical loss of material from the concrete surface. The presence of moisture may contribute to spalling, but the specific action of spalling refers directly to the loss of that surface material as a direct consequence of thermal exposure.

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