Studying the thermal characteristics and effectiveness of structural fire proofing made of PROSASK Firepanel cement boards by means of reproducing the high-temperature effect

Introduction. The application of PROZASK fire-retardant panels demonstrates an option for and the expediency of a comprehensive study of fire proofing characteristics. Goals and objectives. The mission of this research project is to (1) obtain the results of experimental studies of fireproofing panels, containing the cement binder, (2) determine their fire proofing efficiency, using the radiant heating test bench that reproduces pre-set modes of high-temperature exposure, and (2) analyze the testing results using the method of mathematical modelling of temperature fields inside fireproof structures. Methods. Standardized laboratory techniques were used to clarify the thermal-physical characteristics of boards at relatively low temperatures. Their fire proofing efficiency was evaluated in the course of additional testing of specimens using the radiant heating test bench. A reliable and relatively uncomplicated method and programme for calculating unsteady temperature fields in fireproof structures were used to conduct the thermal analysis and generalization of experimental results. The authors summarized the results of standardized tests, conducted in a fire furnace, to determine the flame-retardant efficiency of PROZASK Firepanel boards and the fire-resistance of the full-size structures they protect. Results. Values of specific heat capacity and the thermal conductivity coefficient of boards, tested using laboratory benches at relatively low temperatures, were verified. The results of thermocouple measurements, taken during the testing of specimens with the help of the radiant heating bench in standard and hydrocarbon temperature modes, were obtained. The processing of these results, using thermal engineering analysis, allowed determining the values of the thermal conductivity coefficient in the range of operating temperatures. The influence of moisture, contained in the boards, on their fire protection efficiency was evaluated. Comparison between the results of calculations and tests, conducted in the fire furnaces, showed the practical usability of the obtained characteristics of boards and the thermo-engineering analysis used to (1) clarify the fire-proofing efficiency and the design developed using PROZASK Firepanels and (2) evaluate the fire-resistance of the constructions they protect. Conclusions. The presented integrated studies generated a considerable amount of important information, required to prognosticate the fire proofing properties and the fire-resistance of constructions that contain PROZASK Firepanels. The role of additional testing of specimens using a radiant heating test bench and the effectiveness of thermal-engineering calculations as a tool for assessing the parameters of fire proofing and the fire resistance of structures are demonstrated.