Kinetics of internal structure evolution in gypsum board exposed to standard fire

Abstract

Gypsum is often used as passive fire protection. Indeed, its latent heat effect reduces heat transfer through the structure. To improve composition and physical properties of such material, it is necessary to model its behaviour. Heat and mass transfer have to be considered in the model. For a better understanding of phenomena occurring during a fire event, it is important to study the porosity. In this study, a porosity measurement protocol is developed. The porosity distribution along the thickness of large board sample subjected to standard fire (ISO 834) on one face is studied. In addition, scale effect is taken into account. Finally, the effect of temperature and microstructure are analysed.