Thermal and Fire Characteristics of FRP Composites for Architectural Applications

Abstract

This paper discusses the main challenges of using fiber reinforced polymers (FRPs) in architectural applications. Architects are showing increased interest in the use of FRPs in modern buildings thanks to FRPs' ability to allow cost effective realization of unique shapes and flexible aesthetics, while accommodating architectural designs and needs. The long-term durability, weathering resistance, and the exceptional mechanical properties have recently suggested the adoption of FRPs for building façade systems in an increasing number of buildings worldwide. However, some challenges for a wider adoption of FRPs in buildings are represented by the environmental and thermal aspects of their production, as well as their resistance to the expected "fire loads". This last aspect often raises many concerns, which often require expensive fire tests. In this paper, the results of cone calorimeter tests are compared with software simulations to evaluate the possibility of designing FRPs on the computer as opposed to current design practice that involves iterative use of fire testing. The comparison shows that pyrolysis simulations related to FRPs are still not an effective way to design fire safe FRPs for architectural applications.

A critical review on wireless charging for electric vehicles

“…Instead of absorbing or reflecting incident magnetic waves, it does not affect them. In addition, its durability is very high, and it has a very low thermal conductivity of 0.5 W/(m*°C)[133]. On the other hand, iron and aluminium are the least favourable materials as they absorb magnetic flux and cause losses.…”

Critical Performance Aspects of Retrofitting Apartment Buildings Using a Multifunctional Façade System

“…Need of experimental fire safety tests [49] Smoke emission under fire needs to be carefully assessed [53] Used in the structure of Meefs Pyrolysis simulations are not an effective way to design fire safety of FRPs for architectural applications [49] Cleaning properties…”

Thermal Stability, Fire Performance, and Mechanical Properties of Natural Fibre Fabric-Reinforced Polymer Composites with Different Fire Retardants

“…NFRP composites have been researched for various applications such as civil engineering, automotive engineering, and aircraft and aviation engineering [3,4,5]. In civil engineering, NFRP composites were proven to be effective as external confinement in concrete columns [6,7,8,9] and external flexural strengthening reinforcement for concrete beams [10,11].…”

“…In civil engineering, NFRP composites were proven to be effective as external confinement in concrete columns [6,7,8,9] and external flexural strengthening reinforcement for concrete beams [10,11]. In the automotive industry, the NFRP composites were used as interior and exterior components for vehicles, such as door panels, side panels, headliners, dashboard parts, back side of seats, truck liners, and many others [4,12]. NFRP composites were also investigated as energy absorbers for the crashworthiness design of vehicles [13,14].…”