Self-extinguishment of cross-laminated timber

Roy Crielaard, Jan Willem Van De Kuilen, Karel Terwel, Geert Ravenshorst, Pascal Steenbakkers, Arnoud Breunese

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

Cross-laminated timber, or CLT, is receiving attention for its potential use in tall buildings. As a combustible material, one of the challenges for the construction of these buildings is the fire risk that results from its use in the structure. Unprotected CLT can burn along with the fuel load present in a compartment. Irrespective of its fire resistance rating, it is uncertain whether the structure will be totally consumed in the event of a complete burnout, or whether a fire would decay by self-extinguishment. Self-extinguishment of CLT was investigated by first creating a theoretical model that determined the conditions under which it could be achieved. Two series of experiments were subsequently conducted to quantify these conditions. Based on these experiments it was concluded that there is a potential for self-extinguishment of CLT if: delamination and falloff of charred layers are prevented by applying sufficiently thick lamellae; the heat flux on the CLT during smouldering is below 5 to 6 kW/m2; and the airflow over the CLT surface during smouldering is limited to a speed of 0,5 m/s at heat flux exposures below 6 kW/m2.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationWCTE 2016 - World Conference on Timber Engineering
PublisherVienna University of Technology
ISBN (Electronic)9783903039001
StatePublished - 2016
Externally publishedYes
Event2016 World Conference on Timber Engineering, WCTE 2016 - Vienna, Austria
Duration: 22 Aug 201625 Aug 2016

Publication series

NameWCTE 2016 - World Conference on Timber Engineering

Conference

Conference2016 World Conference on Timber Engineering, WCTE 2016
Country/TerritoryAustria
CityVienna
Period22/08/1625/08/16

Keywords

  • CLT
  • Cross-laminated timber
  • Experiments
  • Fire
  • Self-extinguishment
  • Structure

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