Development of fire‐retarded materials—Interpretation of cone calorimeter data

TLDR

Fire science lacks consensus on interpreting cone calorimeter data, yet the method is essential for screening flammability‑modified materials, though the guidance is empirical and not a substitute for comprehensive studies. The article provides guidance for practitioners on using and interpreting cone calorimetry. The guidance reviews the cone calorimeter setup, fire‑scenario parameters, and measured properties—including heat release rate, mass loss, char yield, combustion efficiency, ignition time, CO and smoke production, FIGRA, and MARHE—while addressing sample thickness, material type, and the relationship to other tests. © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Abstract

Abstract There is little consensus within the fire science community on interpretation of cone calorimeter data, but there is a significant need to screen new flammability modified materials using the cone calorimeter. This article is the result of several discussions aiming to provide guidance in the use and interpretation of cone calorimetry for those directly involved with such measurements. This guidance is essentially empirical, and is not intended to replace the comprehensive scientific studies that already exist. The guidance discusses the fire scenario with respect to applied heat flux, length scale, temperature, ventilation, anaerobic pyrolysis and set‐up represented by the cone calorimeter. The fire properties measured in the cone calorimeter are discussed, including heat release rate and its peak, the mass loss and char yield, effective heat of combustion and combustion efficiency, time to ignition and CO and smoke production together with deduced quantities such as FIGRA and MARHE. Special comments are made on the use of the cone calorimeter relating to sample thickness, textiles, foams and intumescent materials, and the distance of the cone heater from the sample surface. Finally, the relationship between cone calorimetry data and other tests is discussed. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.