Flame behaviour, fire hazard and fire testing approach for lightweight composite claddings – a review

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study is to review and summarise the existing available literature on lightweight cladding systems to provide detailed information on fire behaviour (ignitibility, heat release rate and smoke toxicity) and various test method protocols. Additionally, the paper discusses the challenges and provides updated knowledge and recommendation on selective-fire mechanisms such as rapid-fire spread, air cavity and fire re-entry behaviours due to dripping and melting of lightweight composite claddings. Design/methodology/approach A comprehensive literature review on fire behaviour, fire hazard and testing methods of lightweight composite claddings has been conducted in this research. In summarising all possible fire hazards, particular attention is given to the potential impact of toxicity of lightweight cladding fires. In addition, various criteria for fire performance evaluation of lightweight composite claddings are also highlighted. These evaluations are generally categorised as small-, intermediate- and large-scale test methods. Findings The major challenges of lightweight claddings are rapid fire spread, smoke production and toxicity and inconsistency in fire testing. Originality/value The review highlights the current challenges in cladding fire, smoke toxicity, testing system and regulation to provide some research recommendations to address the identified challenges.

Application of Biopolymers as Sustainable Cladding Materials: A Review

“…Cladding is used as the outer layer in high-rise buildings to protect the building from weather conditions and enhance its visual appeal. Its primary function is to shield structures from environmental factors such as radiant sunlight and moisture, thereby preserving their structural integrity [1,2]. However, escalating global energy consumption and environmental challenges have brought the necessity for energy efficiency in buildings to the forefront of architectural considerations [3].…”

“…Biopolymers, derived from living organisms or their by-products, have garnered significant attention as a potential solution to the limitations of conventional synthetic polymers. These materials, including starch [8], cellulose [9], chitin [10], proteins [11], and lignin [12], exhibit attractive ecological attributes such as biodegradability, renewability, carbon sequestration potential, and notably low embodied energy requirements [1]. As such, biopolymer-based materials hold the potential to revolutionise cladding practices by providing environmentally friendly alternatives that align with the growing demand for sustainable construction materials [13] (Figure 2).…”

Fire Behaviour of Insulation Panels Commonly Used in High-Rise Buildings

“…Flammable and combustible building insulation materials have arisen as a potential new fire hazard [1]. Research on the reaction-to-fire properties of these materials is necessary to evaluate these insulation materials in relation to their fire load.…”

“…When organic polystyrenes-based insulation materials ignite, they melt and produce flame drips, and then the flames can quickly spread and become challenging to extinguish [6,7]. Over recent decades, several fire events were reported regarding flammable external walls associated with sandwich structures used in the building facades [1,8]. For example, the Television Culture Center, China, which was wrapped in lightweight polystyrene extruded (XPS) cladding, caught fire at night in 2009, and the fire was spread by polyurethane insulation.…”

“…For example, the Television Culture Center, China, which was wrapped in lightweight polystyrene extruded (XPS) cladding, caught fire at night in 2009, and the fire was spread by polyurethane insulation. In 2017, rapid-fire spread in Grenfell Tower, London, due to flammable insulation materials, resulted in major loss of life [1,9]. The reaction to fire propagation of these insulation materials should be thoroughly understood, and appropriate fire safety precautions should be developed.…”