Fire Resistance Research Articles

High self-extinguishing and thermal insulating PA66 composites enhanced with flame-retardant cellulose nanocrystals.

High self-extinguishing and thermal insulating PA66 composites enhanced with flame-retardant cellulose nanocrystals.

Pre-Test of a Stand for Testing Fire Resistance of Compressed Hydrogen Storage Systems

The publication presents methods and pre-test results of a stand for testing CHSS in terms of resistance to open fire. The basis for the conducted research is the applicable provisions contained in the UN/ECE Regulation R134. The study includes an overview of contemporary solutions for hydrogen storage systems in high-pressure tanks in means of transport. Development in this area is a response to the challenge of reducing global carbon dioxide emissions and limiting the emissions of toxic compounds. The variety of storage systems used is driven by constraints, including energy demand and available space. New tank designs and conducted tests allow for an improvement in systems in terms of their functionality and safety. Today, the advancement of modern technologies for producing high-pressure tanks allows for the use of working pressures up to 70 MPa. The main goal of the presented research is to present the requirements and research methodology verifying the tank structure and the security systems used in open-fire conditions. These tests are the final stage of the approval process for individual pressure vessels or complete hydrogen storage systems. Their essence is to eliminate the occurrence of an explosion in the event of a fire.

Effect of Protective Coatings on Post-Fire Performance and Behavior of Mild Steel-Based Cold-Formed Steel Back-to-Back Channel Columns with Bolted Connections

This study investigates the buckling performance of built-up cold-formed steel (CFS) columns, with a focus on how different thermal exposures and cooling strategies influence their susceptibility to various failure mechanisms. Addressing the gap in the literature on the fire behavior of mild steel (MS)-based CFS columns, the research aims to provide new insights. Compression tests were conducted on MS-based CFS column specimens after they were exposed to fire, to assess their post-fire buckling strength. The columns were subjected to controlled fire conditions following standardized protocols and then allowed to cool to room temperature. The study examined axial load-bearing capacity and deformation characteristics under elevated temperatures. To improve fire resistance, protective coatings—gypsum, perlite, and vermiculite—were applied to certain specimens before testing, and their performance was compared to that of uncoated specimens. A comprehensive finite element analysis (FEA) was also performed to model the structural response under different thermal and cooling scenarios, providing a detailed comparison of the coating effectiveness, which was validated against experimental results. The findings revealed significant variations in axial strength and failure mechanisms based on the type of fire-resistant coating used, as well as the heating and cooling durations. Among the coated specimens, those treated with perlite showed the best performance. For example, the air-cooled perlite-coated column (MBC2AC) retained a load capacity of 277.9 kN after 60 min of heating, a reduction of only 6.0% compared to the unheated reference section (MBREF). This performance was superior to that of the gypsum-coated (MBC1AC) and vermiculite-coated (MBC3AC) specimens, which showed reductions of 3.6% and 7.9% more, respectively. These results highlight the potential of perlite coatings to enhance the fire resistance of CFS columns, offering valuable insights for structural fire design.

Visualized Analysis of Research Hotspots in Structural Fire Resistance Based on Bibliometrics

This study adopts the bibliometric method to explore the development paths of research hotspots and future directions in the structural fire resistance field. Within the CNKI database, this study utilizes CiteSpace software to visually analyze academic papers and journal articles themed on structural fire resistance from 2012 to 2025 in terms of publication time, institutional and author distributions, keyword co-occurrence, and keyword bursts. Based on the analysis results of these graphs, this study reveals research hotspots and development trends in each period. Overall, the analysis results reveal that structural fire resistance research has evolved from basic theories to practical applications. The focus has shifted to hybrid simulation and interdisciplinary research, with its application potential in complex fire scenarios increasingly enhanced.

Bonding of corrosion-damaged reinforced concrete elements in case of fire impact

This paper examines the bond strength between reinforcement and concrete in reinforced concrete structures under combined effects of corrosion and high temperatures. The analysis employs analytical models and regulatory data to evaluate changes in the strength characteristics of reinforcement and concrete under elevated temperatures and corrosion damage. Thermal and corrosion effects influencing bond strength reduction, material strength degradation, and internal stresses due to differences in thermal expansion coefficients of steel and concrete were taken into account. Results indicate that under high temperatures and significant corrosion levels, bond strength between reinforcement and concrete decreases considerably. The presented models and calculation dependencies allow for a preliminary assessment of the reliability and fire resistance of reinforced concrete structures under corrosion conditions.

Translucent MXene Oxide–Based Bilayered Nanocoating on Woods for Integrated Active and Passive Fire Safety

Intelligent fire‐warning materials and sensors have gained considerable attention due to their excellent passive flame resistance and sensitive active fire‐alarm behaviors. However, current nanofiller‐based fire‐warning composites (e.g., MXene, graphene) still face limitations, including intrinsic dark feature, poor structural reliability, and unstable fire‐warning response, hindering their broad use in decorative applications. Herein, a novel MXene derivative‐based bilayered composite nanocoating on wooden substrates with translucent features, exceptional flame resistance, and sensitive fire‐warning response is reported. MXene oxide porous nanoparticles are synthesized by a facile and simple oxidation of MXene and show unexpected network structure and semitransparent feature. Utilizing double‐layer structure and designed cross‐linked interface, the final nanocoatings applied onto the wooden substrates display good mechanical property and tunable optical transparency. Further, such double‐layer design guarantees excellent fire resistance performance through the formation of a compact C/N/P‐dopped TiO2 network during combustion. More interestingly, the resulting composite nanocoatings also display a rapid fire‐responsiveness (≈2.9 s), extended alarm duration (>300 s), and high repeated fire‐alarm capacity (>30 cycles) even after 1 year outdoors. In this work, a novel strategy is provided for designing intelligent semitransparent, fire‐retardant, and fire‐warning coatings for fire safety of wooden architecture.

High Flame Retardancy of Carbon Nanotubes Reinforced Polyelectrolyte Multilayered Nanocomposites

ABSTRACTIn pursuit of multifunctional flame‐retardant coatings, a layer‐by‐layer (LbL) assembly was used to create hybrid nanocoatings by alternating the deposition of positively charged chitosan (CH) and negatively charged sodium lignosulfonate (Lg). Carbon nanotubes (CNT), dispersed in an Lg solution, were incorporated as robust reinforcements in polymer nanocomposites. Their high aspect ratio and dense network within the CH/CNT‐Lg layers resulted in coatings that were notably thicker and heavier compared to those constructed without CNT. In horizontal flame tests, the presence of CNT led to superior fire resistance. Cone calorimetry further demonstrated that incorporating CNT into a single coating completely suppressed the second peak of heat release for polyurethane foam (PUF). Additionally, total smoke release, total smoke production, maximum average rate of heat emission, and effective heat of combustion were reduced by 68.9%, 72.7%, 47.7%, and 57.3%, respectively, compared to uncoated PUF. These improvements in flame retardancy are attributed to the enhanced thermal stability and high char yields provided by CNT. Overall, given the ease of applying LbL assembly, this strategy offers a promising halogen‐free approach for improving fire safety in both natural and synthetic fibers.

Development of Light Weight Green Efficient Interlocking Blocks Using Waste Plastics and Industrial Wastes for Low Cost Housing Construction

Annually, billions of metric tonnes of solid waste are produced, including Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) plastic waste and other industrial manufacturing by-products. This study assesses durability of waste plastic bricks (WPB), which are made by repurposing scrap plastics from PET. Mechanical and fire resistance properties of WPB have been optimised by varying mixing proportions of PET plastic and mixtures of industrial waste materials like fly ash, waste glass powder and concrete debris in ratios of (20:80, 30:70 and 40:60) respectively. This investigation integrates various wastes synergistically to produce bricks, aiming to replace traditional bricks made from cement and clay. This study investigates mechanical and physical properties of interlocking blocks made from mixtures of plastic and industrial waste materials, including fly ash, waste glass powder, and concrete debris. A mixture ratio of 20:80 (plastic to waste materials) yields a compressive strength of 27.3 N/mm², suitable for use in partition walls. Water absorption rates decrease significantly from 3.5% in conventional blocks to 0.5% in 20:80 ratio blocks, with further reductions to 0.43% and 0.40% for 30:70 and 40:60 ratios, respectively, enhancing water resistance. Efflorescence tests indicate improved performance in blocks with higher proportions of alternative materials, meeting highest standards for first-class bricks. Fire resistance tests confirm that all block compositions, including conventional and mixed ratio blocks, achieve a one-hour fire resistance duration, compliant with ASTM E119 standards, ensuring durability and safety of these alternative material blocks.

Experimental Investigation of Standardized Conditioning and Representative Accelerated Drying Protocols Impact on Concrete Spalling

Experimental Investigation of Standardized Conditioning and Representative Accelerated Drying Protocols Impact on Concrete Spalling

Analyzing the effect of reduced graphene oxide on the physical, mechanical, and long-term durability performance of rubberized concrete

Crumb rubber concrete (CRC) modified with reduced graphene oxide (rGO) is examined to repurpose discarded tires with crumb rubber (CR) replacing natural sand in the proportions of 5, 10, and 15% and rGO replacing cement by 0.05, 0.10, and 0.15%. Thirteen mixes containing different proportions of rGO and CR were made. Workability and density tests were carried out on fresh CRC samples; while tests for compressive strength, tensile strength, and flexural strength were carried out at test periods of 28, 56, and 90 days. Acid attack, water sorptivity, and fire resistance tests were carried out after 90 days. Non-destructive tests like rebound hammer and ultrasonic pulse velocity were carried out after 28 days of curing. The results indicate an increase in the compressive strength, tensile strength, and flexural strength up to 18.7, 3.86, and 10%, respectively, including 0.1% rGO in the CRC. Non-destructive test results confirm the improved performance of rGO-modified concrete. Significant reductions in water sorptivity, mass, and compressive strength after acid exposure were also observed, indicating the enhanced durability due to the addition of rGO in CRC. Fire exposure at 200, 400, and 600 °C, resulted in compressive strength reductions of 10.56, 17.47, and 37.29%, respectively in the mixes.

Fire resistance performance of L-section fireproof board and thin concrete encased skeleton steel column

Fire resistance performance of L-section fireproof board and thin concrete encased skeleton steel column

Experimental and reliability assessment of fire resistance of glue laminated timber beams

Experimental and reliability assessment of fire resistance of glue laminated timber beams

Influence of RPBL connectors in the negative moment zone on fire resistance of steel-concrete continuous composite beams

Influence of RPBL connectors in the negative moment zone on fire resistance of steel-concrete continuous composite beams

Genetic evolutionary deep learning for fire resistance analysis in fibre-reinforced polymers strengthened reinforced concrete beams

Genetic evolutionary deep learning for fire resistance analysis in fibre-reinforced polymers strengthened reinforced concrete beams

Research on fire resistance design of welded hollow spherical joints under axial tension

Research on fire resistance design of welded hollow spherical joints under axial tension

Performance Autoclaved Aerated Concrete of Crushed Coconut Shell (AAC-CCS) for AAC Board Panels

This study investigates the feasibility of incorporating crushed coconut shell (CCS) as a partial replacement for quartz sand in autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC). It highlights the dual benefits of reducing environmental waste and enhancing AAC's material properties, presenting a sustainable approach to construction. The integration of CCS into AAC aligns with global sustainability goals by addressing resource depletion, high energy demands, and environmental concerns linked to quartz sand extraction. Furthermore, this research emphasizes the potential of agricultural waste utilization, such as CCS, to promote eco-friendly construction practices, offering innovative solutions to meet the increasing demand for sustainable building materials. By replacing quartz sand with varying proportions of CCS (0%, 2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, 10%, 12.5%, and 15%), the research evaluates its effects on the mechanical, fire resistance, and surface properties of AAC. The findings reveal that a 2.5% CCS substitution demonstrated the highest compressive strength of 3.7 MPa, as well as improved Young’s modulus and modulus of rupture, while maintaining lightweight characteristics. Additionally, fire resistance tests revealed that 2.5% CCS achieved the highest fire resistance rate of 92%, indicating superior thermal insulation and heat diffusion properties. Surface analysis demonstrates minimal damage post-fire exposure for formulations below to 7.5% CCS. The findings demonstrate that CCS not only provides a viable replacement for traditional aggregates but also enhances the fire resistance and structural durability of AAC, particularly at optimal levels of substitution.

The Effects of Direct Fire and Strength on Autoclaved Aerated Concrete Containing Semiconductor Electronic Molding Resin Waste (AAC-SEMRW) on Partition Panel Application

The research highlights semiconductor electronic molding resin waste (SEMRW) has the potential to improve the strength and fire resistance of Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) due to its excellent properties of (SEMRW) in terms of physical, mechanical, and fire resistance performances. The possibility of SEMRW by its addition in AAC concrete is explored by analyzing the effect of varying additions on the properties of AAC. This fundamental research is to propose a different percentages composition (5%, 10%, 15%,20%, 25%, and 30%) of SEMRW as a partial replacement of sand and containing with standard amounts of cement, quartz sand, water, and a 1% aluminum paste. All specimens experienced a steam curing process for 12 hours at a temperature of 180°C and a steam pressure of 13 bar in an autoclave machine to produce (AAC- SEMRW). The results revealed 20% SEMRW of AAC provides the higher compressive strength at 5.19 MPa. Modulus young and Modulus rupture at 0.11 Gpa and 3.11 Mpa, respectively. In terms of the rate of direct fire analysis, the test gives a higher percentage at 90%. The findings show that AAC-SEMRW can be used as an eco-friendly alternative to typical construction materials by recycling industrial waste and decreasing environmental impact, hence promoting sustainable construction practices. These findings highlight the material's potential in applications that require lightweight, robust, and fire-resistant building solutions, hence contributing to future advances in green construction technology.

Assessment of strength enhancement and structural performance in fiber-reinforced concrete with varying fiber types and percentages

Abstract This study focuses on the strength-enhancing capabilities of three types of fibers: steel fiber, polypropylene fiber, and asbestos fiber, which are commonly used to improve the tensile strength, durability, and load-bearing capacity of concrete structures. Each fiber type offers distinct advantages based on its physical and chemical properties. Steel fibers, for instance, are known for their high tensile strength and ability to resist cracking, while polypropylene fibers enhance the ductility and impact resistance of concrete. Asbestos fibers, though less commonly used due to health concerns, have been historically known for their fire resistance and high tensile strength.The study also explores the effects of varying fiber percentages on the mechanical behaviour of concrete structural members. By incorporating different fiber volumes into the concrete mix, the research aims to optimize the balance between strength and workability. Experimental analyses conducted on test samples reveal that the type and percentage of fiber used play a pivotal role in enhancing the overall performance of concrete. The results underscore the importance of selecting the appropriate fiber type and percentage to meet specific structural requirements.

Optimization of Injection Molding Process for High-Strength and Lightweight Back Rest of Firefighters Using Carbon Fiber Composites of Long Fiber Thermoplastic with Flame Retardants.

This study focuses on reducing the weight of oxygen respirators in firefighters' personal protective equipment (PPE), which currently accounts for about 56% of the total weight. The heavy PPE, weighing between 20 and 25 kg, restricts movement and can lead to musculoskeletal injuries. To address this, the study investigates using a carbon fiber-reinforced composite for the backrest of the oxygen respirator to reduce weight while maintaining strength. The backrest was fabricated using a long-fiber thermoplastic (LFT) composite made with PA66 resin and 30wt.% carbon fiber content. Initially, the injection-molding process conditions were identified to achieve a tensile strength of 85 MPa or higher. Additionally, flame retardants were added to improve fire resistance, with AF-480 at 5 wt.% found to be the best option. Subsequently, optimal injection conditions were set by fabricating the back rest with the composite by applying the Taguchi method to satisfy the required tensile strength. As a result, the composite material achieved a 12.8% weight reduction while maintaining the required strength. This development is expected to significantly improve firefighter safety, leading to more effective firefighting and reduced human and property damage.

Enhancement of flame retardancy of ACS resin with synergistic flame retardant antimony oxide/decabromodiphenyl ethane

Acrylonitrile-chlorinated polyethylene-styrene (ACS) resin is prepared through graft copolymerization of acrylonitrile (AN), chlorinated polyethylene (CPE) and styrene (St). Incorporation of chlorine atoms in ACS enhances flame retardancy and antistatic properties compared to ABS. Limiting oxygen index (LOI) of ACS only keeps within 20 ∼ 23%, which renders it unsuitable for applications requiring fire and heat resistance. In order to improve flame retardancy of ACS, Sb2O3/DBDPE synergistic flame retardant was used for modification of ACS. The influences of the ratio and content of Sb2O3/DBDPE on flame retardancy, thermal stabilities, and mechanical properties of ACS were inveastigated. Experimental results indicated the flame retardancy of ACS was significantly enhanced with ratio of 2/3 and 10 wt% content of Sb2O3/DBDPE, and flame-retardant ACS achieved V-0 class. Characterization of thermal stabilities indicated introduction of Sb2O3/DBDPE significantly improved carbon yield and thermal stabilities of ACS. Characterization of mechanical properties indicated bad compatibility between flame retardant and matrix resin made it easier to aggregation during preparation of composites, uneven dispersion of flame reatrdant in resin slightly decreased mechanical properties of ACS. The effective synergistic flame retardant of Sb2O3/DBDPE reduced the consumption of flame retardant in modification of polymer, which was beneficial to broaden application scope of ACS.