Materials in High Temperatures

Micro-scale research on pre- and post-fire behaviour of building materials to reveal shrinking, possible cracking, changes in mechanical properties, loss in strength and crumbling. Investigation of physical and chemical phenomena observed at the micro-scale when construction materials are exposed to fires. Measurements and numerical simulations to determine the temperature dependence of important physical properties (e.g. thermal conductivity, specific heat, mass loss rate, heating value etc). Development of numerical methodologies for accurate simulation of material micro-scale fire behaviour (e.g. determination of Arrhenius constants for solid reactions, thermo-chemical phenomena at the micro-porous level). Investigation of the fire behaviour of drywall construction components (e.g. gypsum plasterboards, light timber frames, Cross Laminated Timber, wood panels). Behaviour of Phase-Change Materials (PCM) in high temperatures.
Current research activities focus on the detailed investigation of the fire behaviour of conventional (e.g. mineral wool, polyurethane foam, extruded polystyrene, expanded polystyrene) and innovative (Vacuum Insulation Panels, Aerogels) insulation materials.