Theoretical and experimental study of different materials and structures subjected to fire loads

The built heritage, whether historic or not, is constantly subject to risk from many calamitous phenomena that can compromise its operation or even its existence. Within the scope of this thesis, the theme of the fire behaviour of structures was explored. The evaluation of the parameters associated with this phenomenon remains a challenge today. The aim of this work is to physically identify which elements have the greatest influence on the damage of structures that have suffered a fire, to understand the variability of the mechanical behaviour of the structure itself in the case of similar events. The objective is to develop damage assessment criteria and establish methodologies to successfully predict structural collapse in the event of fire. The focus is on certain characteristic structural elements, such as beams, columns and vaults, but more innovative components such as joints and reinforcements were also examined. An in-depth analysis of the state of the art on current investigation and damage identification techniques reports the main innovations in the scientific field. Subsequently, analyses are developed for each case examined, using new numerical and analytical methodologies, however based on data obtained from experimental campaigns carried out. This includes some experimental tests carried out on brick wall panels at the Universidad de Alicante, and on a masonry vault at the Fire Department's Experimental Testing Centre. Finally, the results obtained for each type of element and material are presented and discussed.