Abstract: This chapter deals with the fire properties and performance of wood products and structures. It starts with two subchapters on the basic physical and chemical properties under fire conditions including fire-retardant treatments to obtain higher reaction to fire classes. A new European standard to evaluate their long-term fire performance is included. The third subchapter gives an overview of the fire safety design of wood products in buildings. The European system for fire safety of construction products is explained with the two main fire scenarios to be considered: the initial fire where visible wood surfaces may contribute, and the fully developed fire, which is important to limit the fire to the room of origin. Generally speaking, wooden structures can obtain high fire resistance, whereas the surface properties in the initial fire are less favorable. The European reaction to fire class D is fulfilled for most wood products. North American systems are different and their classification of wood products is described briefly. Methods for calculating the fire resistance of wood elements according to Eurocode 5, and US systems, structural detailing, and fire safety at building sites are presented. The chapter ends by explaining the possibilities for using performance-based fire safety design and active fire protection by, for example, sprinklers.
Publication Year: 2023
Publication Date: 2023-01-01
Language: en
Type: book-chapter
Indexed In: ['crossref']
Access and Citation
Cited By Count: 3
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