The effect of exposure to elevated temperatures on the fracture energy of plain concrete

Results are given for the fracture energy of concrete preheated to temperatures in the range of 20°C-600°C, then tested at room temperature in three-point bending, for both slowly-cooled specimens and those delivered a thermal shock. Fracture energy measurement techniques are discussed, and comparisons made across previous studies. The results suggest a significant difference between residual and 'hot' capacities, along with a temperature dependence on the ductile-brittle transition