The use of materials of natural origin in the construction of buildings is characteristic of all periods of human history. The most affordable raw material for building structures is wood. There are many technologies for its use in the construction of buildings from Russian chopped log huts and towers to European half-timbered houses. The most difficult and acute problem at all times was the fire-retardant treatment of wooden structures, yet the material is combustible.
The modern construction industry offers innovative technologies to increase the limit of resistance of this material to high temperatures and open flame. Their application allows to use the beneficial properties of wood to a large extent. Studies show that bearing metal and reinforced concrete frames under the influence of high temperature lose their stability after 15-20 minutes.
Ways to increase the fire resistance of materials
The most promising area is fire retardant treatment of wooden structures with special chemical compounds. These compounds are called flame retardants. The practice of their application shows that the rate of carbonization of wood is reduced to a value acceptable for practical use. With a significant thickness, the supporting elements are able to maintain stability for a long time.
Such fireproof treatment of wooden structures can be carried out at the stage of production of finished building parts. For example, a round log or profiled beam solid or glued is subjected to impregnation with fire retardants at a woodworking enterprise. Buildings in operation are handled by the owners or employees of specialized companies.
The principle of operation of flame retardants and application methods
Processing fire-retardant composition of wooden structures is carried out in a variety of ways. At woodworking plants, prefabricated elements are soaked in solutions. This technology is most effective, but requires special equipment and large volumes of compositions. In finished buildings, flame retardants are applied by brush, roller or spray.
Fireproof treatment of wooden structures by chemical impregnation is widely used in construction. Its principle of operation is as follows: under the influence of flame and high temperatures, a layer of non-combustible substances forms on the surface. Foaming occurs predominantly, which significantly reduces heat transfer. In addition, the formation of substances that displace oxygen.
Technology Efficiency Check
Fire technical expertise aims to verify the degree of fire protection of buildings and structures. Classification of buildings is carried out in accordance with regulatory documentation and legislation. This allows you to identify the level of fire safety of real estate. Based on the conclusion of commission inspections, a set of measures is being developed to increase the degree of fire resistance of buildings.
Testing of flame retardant treatment of wooden structures is carried out at the stage of their production. Control is carried out in the laboratories of the enterprise or independent research certification centers.