This paper describes test methods for fire spalling resistance of concrete and techniques for the assessment of concrete damage from fire, based on the findings of the Japan Concrete Institute's Research Committee on Performance Evaluation of Concrete Structures under Fire Conditions. Specifically, regarding test methods for fire spalling resistance of concrete, this paper outlines the Committee's findings regarding common tests conducted for the purpose of proposing a test method for fire spalling resistance of concrete (investigation parameters: specimen shape and size, test age, heating method, etc.), and it introduces the concrete spalling resistance test method proposed by the Committee as a draft proposal. Regarding techniques for the assessment of concrete damage from fire, findings regarding post-fire assessment of concrete are summarized based on the results of common tests consisting of chemical analysis and non-destructive/ semi-destructive testing of test specimens fabricated to simulate fire-damaged concrete.

The Architectural Institute of Japan published “Recommendation for Design and Practice of Reinforced Concrete Building with Portland Blast-Furnace Slag Cement or Ground Granulated Blast-Furnace Slag”. This Recommendation newly adds eco friendliness as one of the required performance parameters of buildings (classification by CO₂ emissions reduction ratio), and present specifications and performance verification methods for the popularization and standardization of blast-furnace slag concrete, aiming for the active use of blast furnace cement Class C (or Class C equivalent), which includes higher content of ground granulated blast furnace slag, besides blast furnace cement Class B (or Class B equivalent), which has been in general use for many years already, in order to achieve even more effective CO₂ emissions reduction.

In recent years, the performance deterioration of concrete structures due to bleeding has been pointed out. This is considered to be due to the fact that excessive bleeding has an adverse influence on the mechanical performance and durability of the concrete structure, and finishing becomes difficult when the bleeding is too small. However, the influence of bleeding on the properties of concrete can not be quantitatively grasped. Also, because the bleeding test method is not universal, it is impossible to properly control bleeding. Based on these circumstances, we conducted committee activities to ensure the performance of concrete structures through proper bleeding control. This report summarizes the results of the activities of this committee.