In this research paper, an analytical and experimental investigation o
f the behavior of concrete slabs exposed to high temperatures is prese
nted. A mathematical model has been developed to predict the thermal b
ehavior of the slabs in both transit and steady states, taking into ac
count the physical properties of concrete. The finite element techniqu
e was utilized to solve the problem numerically and a computer program
has been developed to estimate the temperature distribution through t
he slabs. In addition, six unloaded concrete slabs (400 x 400 x 80 mm)
are tested under different exposure temperatures and durations. The t
emperatures at different depths are recorded at 5 min intervals to ver
ify the theoretical results. A maximum test temperature of 600 degrees
C was chosen to represent the upper limit for the structural usefulne
ss of Portland cement-based concretes. Copyright (C) 1996 Elsevier Sci
ence Ltd