Fire Prevention Research Articles

Current Advances in Flame-Retardant Performance of Tunnel Intumescent Fireproof Coatings: A Review

As building safety standards keep escalating, research on intumescent fireproof coatings has garnered growing attention. Among them, tunnels, with their enclosed configuration and relatively high accident occurrence rate, impose higher demands on the environmental friendliness, durability, and thermal stability of fireproof coatings. At present, intumescent fireproof coatings have been extensively applied in tunnels; however, a comprehensive and in-depth overview of intumescent fireproof coatings and their application in tunnels is still lacking. This paper summarizes the fire prevention mechanism of intumescent fireproof coatings, the intumescent fireproof system, the impact of functional fillers on the fire resistance performance of intumescent fireproof coatings, and the application of intumescent fireproof coatings in tunnels. Additionally, we present the synergistic effect of the combined use of different functional fillers. Finally, some key challenges regarding the use of intumescent fireproof coatings in tunnel environments are put forward, along with prospects and opportunities.

Study on the Influence of Fibers to the Physical Mechanical Properties of Foam Concrete

Foam concrete has been widely used in building, infrastructure and fire prevention fields because of its lightweight, excellent heat and sound insulation performance. However, due to its high porosity, the compressive strength of foam concrete is usually low, which limits its application in some high-strength structures. In order to solve this problem, researchers improve the mechanical properties of foam concrete by adding different types of fiber materials. This paper summarizes the research progress of fiber on the performance of foam concrete, and analyzes the influence of different types of fiber (such as polypropylene fiber, basalt fiber, polyvinyl alcohol fiber, etc.) on the performance of foam concrete. The research shows that adding proper amount of fiber into foam concrete can effectively improve the mechanical, durability, dry shrinkage and other properties of foam concrete.

The Inhibition Effect of CO2-N2 Composite Gas on Spontaneous Combustion of Coal and the Law of Competitive Adsorption in Coal

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study is to study the effect of CO2-N2 composite gas on coal spontaneous combustion index gas and the mechanism of inhibiting coal spontaneous combustion through a competitive adsorption process and to provide theoretical guidance for adopting inert injection fire prevention and control technology in goaf to prevent coal spontaneous combustion. The programmed temperature experiment and gas chromatography were used to analyze the indicator gas after injecting different mixed ratios of CO2 and N2 inert gas. In the whole oxidation heating process (25–300 ℃), the generation of indicator gas and the peak point of gas ratio showed an apparent “Hysteresis phenomenon” and the more significant the proportion of CO2 in the composite inert gas, the more pronounced the “Hysteresis phenomenon.” Even in the CO2-dry air environment, the peak point disappears, indicating that with the injection of N2 and CO2, the coal body is in a more complex gas atmosphere, and a variety of gases are in the process of adsorption and desorption on the inner and outer surfaces of the coal body. The characteristics of the evolution of the spontaneous combustion oxidation process of coal are more complex, directly affecting the coal-oxygen interaction, thus affecting the intuitive combustion oxidation process. Molecular simulation studies the characteristics of coal molecules on CO2, N2, and O2. The results show that the adsorption capacity and adsorption energy of coal molecules on CO2 molecules are more significant than O2 and N2, and there is a competitive adsorption relationship between CO2 and N2 molecules and O2 molecules, and the competitive adsorption capacity of CO2 is more significant than N2. It shows that the composite inert gas can inhibit the coal-oxygen adsorption by competitive adsorption to displace oxygen and achieve the combustion inhibition effect. The experimental and theoretical basis for developing and improving inert gas fire extinguishing technology is provided by studying the index gas after CO2-N2 composite inert gas action and the adsorption capacity and energy in the competitive adsorption process.

Study on the law of air leakage in goaf under the influence of double-series coal seam mining.

In order to solve the engineering problem of a large amount of wind leakage in the 8106 comprehensive mining working face of the Carboniferous System under the influence of overlapping mining of two coal seams in Yongdingzhuang Mine, Datong Mining Area, this paper utilizes finite element numerical simulation software to study the wind leakage characteristics of the 8106 working face and the distribution range of the spontaneous combustion "three zones" of the mining area. The results show that, under the condition of external air leakage, the internal pressure of the goaf is greater than the external pressure, the upper pressure is greater than the lower pressure, and the seepage direction is from the top down and from the inside out. Under the condition of no external air leakage, the air leakage source is mainly concentrated in the air inlet lane. When there is no external air leakage, the goaf oxidation zone is evenly distributed with a width of 70m. When there is external air leakage, the width of oxidation zone in goaf is between 70m and 150m. With the increase of external air leakage, the area and width of oxidation zone on both sides of the inlet and return air duct become larger, which leads to the increase of coal spontaneous combustion risk in coal mining airspace. The research results of this paper have theoretical guidance for air leakage monitoring and fire prevention in goaf.

Self-healing, flame retardant and UV resistant lignin-derived epoxy wood coating with a Schiff base structure.

The traditional epoxy resin not only is flammable and non-recyclable and but also heavily dependents on petroleum resources, which cannot meet the requirements of fire prevention and sustainable development. In this study, a vanillin intermediate (VAP) with dynamic imine bond (C=N) was prepared by schiff base reaction between the lignin derivative vanillin (-CHO) and the cage-like polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane OA-POSS(-NH2). Then, a biomass-based P-N-Si flame retardant (VAPD) was synthesized by adding 9,10-Dihydro-9-Oxa-10-Phosphaphenanthrene-10-Oxide (DOPO) into the VAP. Subsequently, the VAPD acted as curing agent of epoxy resin to prepare epoxy wood coatings (VAPDs/EP). The results showed that the VAPD-5/EP coating not only exhibited excellent self-healing property and was able to achieve 100% healing within 35min, but also presented distinctive UV-shielding performance. In addition, the VAPD-5/EP coating reached V-0 level of UL-94 test and got 29.3% of limiting oxygen index (LOI). Compared with EP coating, the peak heat release rate (pHRR) decreased by 38%. Furthermore, the VAPD-5/EP coating reached 6H level of hardness test and 4B level of adhesion test. A simple strategy for preparing self-healing flame retardant epoxy coatings with comprehensive properties for protection of wood materials was proposed in this study.

Conceptional design of passive system-level battery fire prevention device based on Tesla valve channel and phase change material

Conceptional design of passive system-level battery fire prevention device based on Tesla valve channel and phase change material

Fire Prevention at High-Voltage Cable Connection Points Using Internet of Things Wireless Technology

The integration of Internet of Things (IoT) technology in fire prediction and prevention is part of the “Fourth Industrial Revolution.” This study aims to mitigate fire risks in high-voltage cable joints by monitoring the real-time temperature and ambient temperature/humidity changes driven by variations in contact resistance. The limitations of onsite inspections are addressed using a real-time monitoring system that employs SMS alerts, mobile applications, and web-based interfaces. By enabling managers to assess cable conditions remotely, this system significantly reduces the labor, time, and costs associated with inspections. Furthermore, an IoT-based long-range (LoRa) communication network was used to establish a comprehensive sensor network to gather data on temperature, humidity, as well as the operational status of automatic gas-extinguishing systems. LTE-M communication facilitates big data collection, enabling the prediction of temperature anomalies caused by insulation failure in high-voltage cables. This approach not only prevents fires but also ensures the continuous monitoring of automatic gas-extinguishing systems before and after fire incidents.

Layered double hydroxide reinforced thermal expansion fire extinguishing agent for potential solid fire prevention

In this work, phosphorus-decorated Zn-Al-CO3 layered double hydroxide (PLDH) was prepared via a co-precipitation strategy and thus introduced into intumescent flame retardant dispersion to fabricate PLDH-reinforced thermal expansion fire extinguishing agent (FEA@PLDH). It was found that the phosphorus-containing unit was successfully anchored onto the PLDH. The prepared FEA@PLDH solution with a viscosity of 146 mPa·s exhibited good interfacial compatibility with the ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) surface. Taking advantage of the synergistic catalytic carbonization and expanded insulating barrier effects of FEA@PLDH, the corresponding coated EVA (EVA-FEA@PLDH1) with 1 wt% of PLDH could form a continuous and compact carbonaceous block layer under fire or high-temperature conditions. Meanwhile, the LOI for EVA-FEA@PLDH1 was increased from 22.0% to 32.0% and reached the UL-94 rating of V0. Moreover, EVA-FEA@PLDH1 showed delayed TTI (77 s) and TPHRR (146 s), with 6% and 44% reductions in THR and TSP, respectively, and 43% increment in residual char, as compared to the EVA-FEA. In addition, fire resistance experiment revealed that EVA-FEA@PLDH1 could withstand the ∼1300 °C flame for 467 s longer than that of the EVA-FEA (171 s). This research provides an intriguing fire extinguishing agent for the potential fire prevention of flammable polymer materials.

Forest and Land Fire Management in Indonesia: Unveiling the Implementation Gaps of Law No. 32 of 2009 in Palembang

Forest and land fires (Karhutla) pose a significant environmental threat in Indonesia, particularly in Palembang. Law No. 32 of 2009 on Environmental Protection and Management provides a framework for fire prevention and mitigation. This study evaluated the law's implementation effectiveness in addressing Karhutla in Palembang. A socio-legal approach was employed, utilizing primary data from interviews with key informants (government officials, law enforcement, community leaders, and residents affected by fires) and secondary data from legal documents, reports, and academic literature. Qualitative data analysis techniques were used to identify themes and patterns. The study revealed that Law No. 32 of 2009 has not been effectively implemented in Palembang. Weaknesses were identified in law enforcement, inter-agency coordination, resource allocation, and community engagement. While a clear legal framework and stakeholder support exist, implementation is hindered by limited resources, inadequate sanctions, and low public awareness. In conclusion, to improve Karhutla management, strengthening law enforcement, enhancing inter-agency coordination, increasing public legal awareness, and ensuring adequate resource allocation are crucial.

Examining the effectiveness and economic benefits of home fire safety visits

Home safety visits form an important part of fire prevention strategies adopted by fire and rescue services. However, to date, limited research focus has been directed toward examining whether this prevention activity is effective in achieving the aim of reducing accidental dwelling fires (ADFs) or the social and economic value of this. Accordingly, focusing on one region of England (Merseyside), the following study adopts outcome evaluation and cost-benefit analysis approaches to examine (i) the impact of home safety visits on ADFs, injuries, and fire containment and (ii) the cost-effectiveness of home safety visits. Data was sourced from Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service, the UK Home Office, and a systematic search of existing economic models. Findings of the outcome evaluation highlight that ADFs are significantly less likely to occur in properties that receive a home safety visit. Increasing the number of home safety visits conducted is also associated with a significant reduction in ADFs. Results of cost-benefit analysis highlight that every £1 invested in home safety visits results in a saving of £2.75 from reductions in ADFs, injuries, and fatalities. Overall, findings indicate that home safety visits are both an effective and cost-effective form of fire prevention. Findings pose important implications for informing fire sector discussions regarding the resourcing of prevention and the development of frameworks to demonstrate efficiency and effectiveness.

СПОСОБЫ БОРЬБЫ С ЛЕСНЫМИ ПОЖАРАМИ

In this paper, the types of forest fires, the main causes of forest fires, as well as methods used to combat forest fires in Russia and abroad were considered. There are several types of forest fires: grassroots, riding level and peat fire. Sometimes a separate category is distinguished by the ignition of dead wood and a spotted fire. The most common cause of fires is a person and his activities (spring grass fall, unkempt fires, discarded cigarette butts, broken bottles and other garbage). Methods of fighting forest fires are divided into two categories: preventive methods (prevention of forest fires) and methods of extinguishing forest fires. Conclusions were drawn about the most commonly used methods of fighting for various types of forest fires.

АНАЛИЗ ФАКТОРОВ, СПОСОБСТВУЮЩИХ ВОЗНИКНОВЕНИЮ ПОЖАРОВ В ЗДАНИЯХ

Fires can have a direct or indirect impact on the durability and performance of a building. Even though many methods of fire prevention and detection are used today, fires in buildings are still considered a serious threat to residents. To identify the factors that most affect the occurrence of a fire, a comprehensive analysis of past fires in buildings was carried out. As factors influencing the occurrence of fires in buildings, the features of the building design, reconstruction methods, human behavior, fire safety rules, building codes and regulations, fire extinguishing means and methods, as well as the ideas of architects and engineers about fire safety were identified. The paper attempts to lay the foundation for a better understanding of past fires and the desire to create fire-resistant buildings in the future.

Development and Evaluation of Steel Component Coatings for Substations/Converter Stations with Both Fire and Corrosion Prevention Functions

There are a large number of steel components in substations/converter stations whose performance is seriously affected by being exposed to environmental corrosion and fire, endangering the operation of the substation/converter station. The current protective measures for steel components in substations/converter stations primarily involve the application of anti-corrosion and fireproof coatings. However, these coatings can easily peel off, resulting in a significant loss of their protective effectiveness. In response to this challenge, a new type of silicone-modified epoxy resin substrate has been synthesized by chemically grafting silicone resin onto epoxy resin segments, which retains the high adhesion of epoxy resin while enhancing its weather resistance. The use of synthesized nano zinc oxide-modified graphene oxide as a fireproof filler significantly improves the physical barrier effect and corrosion resistance of the coating. Additionally, the innovative addition of new metal anti-corrosion active pigments improves the adhesion and impermeability of the coating. Therefore, a steel structure coating for substations/converter stations with both fire and corrosion prevention functions has been developed. Standard tests conducted by national institutions have shown that the coating meets the performance requirements.

Awareness and Readiness of Fire Officers on The Possession of Firearms: Basis for Policy Development

Republic Act No. 11589, known as the Bureau of Fire Protection Modernization Act of 2021, aims to enhance the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in the Philippines by improving firefighters' ca-pabilities in fire prevention, suppression, investigation, and emer-gency medical services. The law also authorizes the issuance of firearms to certain firefighters to ensure their safety and that of their colleagues while performing their duties. This study used a descriptive-correlational research design and quantitative meth-ods to assess BFP fire officers' awareness and readiness regarding firearm possession, bearing, and carrying. Data were collected from 120 respondents at the Caloocan City Fire Station between November 15 and 28, 2023. The findings indicate that fire officers generally understand firearm laws and procedures well, including licensing requirements such as age limits and background checks, though they encounter challenges with paperwork and license re-newals. They are also familiar with the rules for carrying firearms, including permit requirements and concealment during duty. The results highlight the need for enhanced training and clearer regula-tions to ensure safe firearm use and minimize incidents, in line with broader research on firearm policies and education. The study concludes that, despite a solid understanding of firearm reg-ulations, there is a need for improved licensing processes and training. Recommendations include developing comprehensive and practical training programs, conducting regular refresher courses, creating accessible reference materials, and improving licensing procedures through flexible scheduling and simplified paperwork, as well as addressing training challenges through bet-ter recruitment, funding, and facilities.

A Series Arc Fault Diagnosis Method Based on an Extreme Learning Machine Model

In this study, we address the critical issue of accurately detecting series AC arc faults, which are often challenging to identify due to their small fault currents and can lead to devastating electrical fires. We propose an intelligent diagnosis method based on the extreme learning machine (ELM) model to enhance detection accuracy and real-time monitoring capabilities. Our approach involves collecting high-frequency current signals from 23 types of loads using a self-developed AC series arc fault data acquisition device. We then extract 14 features from both the time and frequency domains as candidates for arc fault diagnosis, employing a random forest to select the most significantly changed features. Finally, we design an ELM classifier for series arc fault diagnosis, achieving an identification accuracy of 99.00% ± 0.26%. Compared to existing series arc fault diagnosis methods, our ELM-based method demonstrates superior recognition performance. This study contributes to the field by providing a more accurate and efficient diagnostic tool for series AC arc faults, with broad implications for electrical safety and fire prevention.

Research on Fire Smoke Characteristics and Key Factor Evaluation in High‐Altitude Traffic Tunnels

ABSTRACTGiven the seriousness of fire safety issues in high‐altitude traffic tunnels, it is essential to investigate the spatial temperature characteristics under the coupling of multiple factors and their correlation with fire safety elements. This study systematically conducted full‐scale simulation analyses of highway tunnels to reveal the distribution of transverse and longitudinal spatial temperature as well as the longitudinal smoke diffusion patterns. Based on the simulation data, an integrated approach utilizing orthogonal test analysis, deviation analysis, and sensitivity analysis was employed to explore the impacts of various factors, including altitude, the transverse position of the fire source, fire scale, and wind speed, on tunnel fire safety. The results indicate that the influence of altitude on the longitudinal temperature along the arch and the position of spatial cross‐section characteristic points varies. Longitudinal ventilation speed is a relatively key factor affecting tunnel fire safety, particularly in terms of arch temperature and smoke backflow length, where its impact is significant. Additionally, fire scale has a notable impact on evacuation safety, with its overall influence ranking just below that of wind speed. In contrast, altitude and fire source position have relatively minor effects on tunnel fire safety. Inadequate longitudinal ventilation hinders the escape of personnel during tunnel fires, indicating that the design and operation of ventilation systems should be prioritized in fire prevention and control strategies. The findings of this study have significant practical implications for optimizing fire prevention and response capabilities in high‐altitude tunnels.

Gelatin-based spray for forest fire prevention and fertilization

Frequent forest fires, driven by hotter and drier climates, threaten biodiversity and human health, causing significant economic losses, air pollution, soil erosion, and degeneration. Current active and passive fire protection methods often suffer from environmental pollution, poor flexibility, and limited availability in remote areas. However, fast-acting surface flame retardants for passive forest fire protection, particularly for foliage, are rare. Herein, we report an easily obtainable gelatin-based fire spray, which resulted in 1.8 and 16.3-fold extension in ignition time, 34% and 39% reductions in total heat release, 78% and 92% reductions in fire growth index for dead and fresh leaves, respectively. After the fire warning is suppressed, for instance by rain, the sprayed substances can decompose and provide nitrogen and phosphorus as leaf and soil fertilizers without affecting soil microbial function, which increase plant net photosynthesis by 84% and effective nitrogen and phosphorus by 664% and 140%, respectively. Our green flame retardant and fertilizer material allows for simultaneous tree fire protection and growth.

Study on Preparation and Heat Insulation Properties of Solidified Foams for Forest Fire Prevention and Control

ABSTRACT For effective prevention and control of forest fires, a new type of solidified foam was prepared by using composite foaming agent, foam stabilizer, sodium silicate, sodium bicarbonate solution, loess and cement as raw materials. The optimal ratio of solidified foam surfactant, foam stabilizer, gel agent, crosslinking agent and powder was investigated experimentally. Its thermal insulation performance was tested and its thermal insulation mechanism was analyzed. The results showed that when the surfactant ratio was SDS: AES = 2:1, the concentration was 0.8%, the concentration of foam stabilizer dodecyl alcohol, gelling agent WG and crosslinking agent NaHCO3 were 0.08%, 10% and 2%, respectively. When the powder ratio is loess: cement = 4:6, water-cement ratio 0.6 and foam content 8 V, the comprehensive performance of solidified foam is the best. The solidified foam is heated at different temperatures, and the temperature rise is the slowest. When it is heated at 400°C, the highest temperature is 71.92°C, which is 75.89°C lower than the highest temperature of gel foam. The fire retardant material has excellent stability and can block heat for a long time. In the process of fire extinguishing, it can effectively isolate oxygen, reduce heat transfer efficiency, and inhibit the spread of fire.

Fire Protection Systems, Life-Saving Facilities, and Fire Management in Depok City in 2020: A Case Study

Introduction: Hospital fire can result in greater casualties, injuries to patients or staff, and loss of property and equipment compared to fires in other types of building. This is attributed to the presence of a large number of vulnerable individuals, including those who are ill, disabled, pregnant, children, elderly, immunocompromised, on life support, or incapable of moving independently. This study aims to assess the implementation of the fire protection system, life-saving facilities, and fire management in Hospital X. Methods: This was a quantitative study on active fire protection system facilities, passive protection system facilities, live-saving facilities, and fire management as the subjects. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and document review, as well as a checklist and then analyzed by comparing the actual conditions with applicable standards and regulations. The final result was presented as the percentage compliance level and categorization according to the criteria established by the Research and Development Agency of the Public Works Department. Results: The active fire protection system presented a standard fulfillment rate of 53%, categorizing it as poor. The passive fire protection systems similarly demonstrated a poor fulfillment rate at 42%, while the life-saving facilities achieved a 66.7% fulfillment rate, placing them in the quite good category. Additionally, fire management attained an 81% fulfillment level, which falls under the good category. Conclusion: Hospital X has a good fire prevention approach with a standard fulfillment level of 60%.

Electrical Home Fire Injuries Analysis

Domestic electrical fires can occur for a variety of reasons, including faulty wiring and plugs, overloaded circuits, and malfunctioning electrical appliances. In this article, the circumstances of domestic electrical fire injuries between 2011 and 2022 in the county of Merseyside in Northwestern England were examined in order to inform fire prevention activities. Householder carelessness, such as cooking, or smoking, appeared to be less of a factor in electrical fire injury compared to other types of fire injury. Faulty electricity supplies were the main cause of electrical fire injuries. Male residents were slightly more likely to sustain injury in an electrical fire in comparison to females (1.25 to 1). Those aged 75+ appeared to be more at risk of electrical fire injuries compared to other age groups.