Wind Effect on Combustion in Compartment Fire - Research Proposal Example

University of School of Proposal for Fire Science (MSc) Dissertation () Proposed Research Title Wind Effect on Combustion in Compartment Fire Name Student Number Email Address Submission Date BACKGROUND The section discusses some of the important factors contributing to the decision to undertake the study. Analysis of the Instrument (Cone Calorimeter) Huang et al. (2012) state that the cone calorimeter is an integral component in testing different polymers under a range of conditions. It enables studying combustion/decomposition and burning characteristics of polymers. Zhang, Delichatsios & Bourbigot (2009) complements the views of Huang et al. (2012) identifying numerous measurements, which can be achieved through the use of cone calorimeter. Some of the cone test parameters include total heat release, effective heat of combustion, the average rate of heat release, and peak rate of heat release, time to peak rate of heat release, flameout time, and time to ignition. Patel et al. (2011) review the cone calorimeter stating it is an integral component for bench tests because of its simplicity and the ability to measure different components that can be presented in excel formats. These reasons contributed to the decision to use the cone calorimeter to carry out the experiment and associated studies. Gasses Emitted During Burning (Toxic Gases) Andrews et al. (2015) carried out a study focusing gasses produced in incidents of aircraft fires. The authors utilized a cone calorimeter in a controlled fire ventilation. Andrews et al. (2015) burnt six different types of blankets, and these materials have different fabric compositions. The authors observed the burning in two phases: flaming and smoldering combustion. Andrews et al. (2015) found out that the dominant gasses were acrogenic and nitrogen, and may be attributed to the nitrogen products from the blanket. The authors recommend for the elimination of some blankets from the cabin because of the HCN and HCI gasses produced through the processes. Andrews et al. (2007) utilized a 1.6m3 fire compartment with the help of thermocouple arrays and analyzed the gasses discharged during burning. The focus of the study was on the pillows and blankets and the heat peaked at 200kW. The authors stated that the fire development was restricted because of the compartment and some of the gasses produced include carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, while other cases and may be associated with fire extinguishers are HCN, SO2 and HCI. The authors conclude that the most common gasses produced because of controlled ventilation and compartment fires are formaldehyde, HCN, and HCI. Aljumaiah et al. (2011) also utilized a 1.6 m3 compartment to analyze curtain fires with a cotton lining. The composition of the curtains was 62% acrylic and 38% cotton by weight. The authors found out the greatest toxicity was from HCN while other toxic gasses include carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, acrolein and HCN. Small portions of acetic acid and benzene were released during the combustion processes. From these studies, it indicates that in the burning process, the toxic gasses commonly produced during burning cotton based products produces formaldehyde, carbon monoxide, HCN, and HCI. Fuel Air Ratio It is commonly defined as the mass ratio of air to fuel that is present during any combustion process. If the amount of fuel and air is equal in that it burns out completely, the ratio is called stoichiometric. The ratio is also associated with the heat release rate and is based on Thornton's findings (Thornton, 1917). According to Thornton study, carbon-based combustibles, which includes cotton, release the same volume of energy compared to oxygen consumed. The fuel-air ratio is obtained from the following equation: AFR = mass air / mass fuel The following equation obtains the fuel air ratio FAR = 1 / AFR The air-fuel equivalence ratio denoted by λ is the ratio of AFR to stoichiometry. The appropriate equation is indicated by λ = 1.0; lean mixtures of air and fuel are given by λ > 1.0 while for rich mixtures is λ < 1.0. It is also possible to calculate fuel-air equivalence ratio ϕ; the following equation is appropriate. Retrieved from (Çengel & Boles, 2006) Flashover, Thermal Analysis Behaviors, and Sample Weight Yeung & Chow (2002) studied the safety of furniture through focusing fabric when it comes to fire incidents. The authors used cone calorimeter for the study and heat flux of 50 kWm-2, and the data of average release rate, peak heat release rate and sustained ignition time was recorded in the 60s and 180s after ignition. Other measurements were carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, total smoke release, mass loss percentage, and total heat release rate. The authors found out that the ignition time was 3 seconds where the radiative heat flux was 50 kWm-2 which is above the flashover of 20 kWm-2. Petrella (1994) provides some conditions contributing to flashover, which is time to ignition and total heat released. It means that the radiative heat flux speeds the ignition time resulting in flashover. Price et al. (2000) studied the behavior of three different flexible polyurethane foam covered with wool was analyzed through the help of cone calorimeter. The radiant flux of the cone calorimeter was 30 kWm-2 two wool fabrics, and the one-flame retarded sample was used in which the zirconium hexafluoride and melamine component. The authors found out that the sample with chlorinated phosphate emitted increased levels of carbon monoxide and smoke compared to samples covered with melamine. In addition, the ignition times of the fabric/foam combinations were comparatively longer compared with the sample with only foams. Moreover, the rates of heat realize of the composite material was different and the mitigating component was the covering fabric. The amount of carbon monoxide and smoke relied on the fabric and foam combination. The study indicates the use of retarded affects the time of ignition, reaching peak rates of heat release, and toxicity of gasses produced. Ceylan et al. (2013) state that the sample density plays a crucial role in cone calorimeter test results. The authors compare textile fabrics with cotton fibers stating that the thickness of the sample should be within the instrument measurements limits while cotton fiber has less density meaning thicker sample is required. Therefore, more cotton fiber is required to obtain a specific weight, but the thickness depends on packing density. The sample utilized weighed 1, 2, and 3 g were exposed to different heat fluxes of 25 kWm-2, 35 kWm-2 and 30 kWm-2. The authors found out that at 25 kWm-2, the sample smolders since the irradiating source and fibers density is not enough to start flaming combustion. The same situation occurred in 30 kWm-2 and 50 kWm-2 meaning more heat fluxes are required. However, the authors did not clarify the reasons and the influence of weights on the overall burning requirements and expectations. Significance of HRR in Fires Sonnier et al. (2011) state that the heat release rate should not be described as among the variables measured in fire behavior but should be the integral component. Analyzing the heat release rate enables describing fire hazard and such decisions are premised on numerous reasons. Tata et al. (2011) state that heat release rate is the driving force for fire. It is associated with the engine that drives the fire and usually occurs in a positive effect way in that more heat release more heat. This component is different from other measures such as carbon monoxide since more carbon monoxide does not translate to increased carbon monoxide. Vannier et al. (2008) posit that other measurable variables are correlated to heat release rate. The continuous increase in heat due to undesirable fire products translate in an increase in heat release rate. Sacristán et al. (2010) states with more heat release rate results in increases in heat release rate and these processes contribute to increasing in room temperatures, toxic gasses, smoke and other fire hazard variables. Furthermore, the increase or high values of heat rate release is associated with more fatalities. Lindholm, Brink & Hupa (2012) states that a product that is easily ignitable or high flame spread rates does not mean the fire is dangerous rather it may indicate nuisance fires propensity. However, high rates of heat flux are dangerous, and it is fatal to occupants and other vulnerable components. Kim, Lee & Kim (2011) argues the heat release rate can be associated with the heat flux, which is used to start the ignitions and support the combustion process. The higher the heat flux, it translates to more heat release rate making the scenario worse due to destruction and associated processes. Even though heat release rate may be high, Fu et al. (2015) analyze the effect of ventilation in the entire process. The materials for burning may be available, but the problem is whether there is enough oxygen to control the burning process. Limited oxygen prevents burning because the burning process requires fuel and oxygen in specified amounts. As discussed earlier, to support complete combustion, a certain amount of oxygen is required. Without the right amount of oxygen, it becomes a challenge for the effective burning process. Shi & Chew (2013) bonders around the heat rate release and discusses oxygen (ventilation) is important to the entire process. Reasons for the Research It is evident that numerous studies have been done focusing on compartments and use of cone calorimeter as an instrument. The focus has been different sources of fuel with different levels of heat flux. In addition, the background of the studies are different in that one research focuses on airplanes while others focus on curtains and furniture. It becomes difficult to understand the behavior of materials and fabrics because the tested fabrics are made of different components. The lack of clarification is other matters such as the toxicity of the materials in pure forms such as using a single fabric is insufficient. Even though some researches have focused on density and weight of the materials, the focus results in grouping different fabrics raising concerns leading to the current decision to do independent research. In some of the studies, cotton has been used as one of the components in the tests, but it is not in the pure state. The purpose of the current study is to utilize a pure component (e.g. cotton only without combination with another fabric), within a specific range of heat flux, and at different time period. Carrying out the study will enable identifying the combustion behavior of cotton resulting in measuring numerous components. Some of the measurements include the time of ignition, radiant heat flux, the toxicity of the gasses released, and rate of heat release, among others. AIMS and OBJECTIVES The research question is: Wind effect on combustion in compartment fire The aims of the study are: Effect of the wind on fire behavior or combustion processes Appreciate different ratios: Air fuel ratio vs. time and Equivalent ratio vs. time Understand how manipulation of wind supply affects fire behavior Record any gas emissions and classification of the gasses The objectives of the study: Appreciate the combustion processes The role of the wind in combustion processes The emitted gasses based on the amount of wind exposed METHODOLOGY and PROGRAMME Instruments and Materials A cone calorimeter with simulated compartment will be used to determine fire behavior from a cotton towel. The manual was used to calibrate the instrument, and the entire system is based on the air flow to influence the burning process. Some of the data recorded and anticipation of the study is to collect different information such as equivalent ratio vs. time, air fuel ratio vs. time, and effect on fire behavior or combustion process. The amount of heat released would be documented among other information. Other measures achieved through the use of cone calorimeter includes toxic gas released, smoke release rate, time to sustained ignition, final sample mass, mass loss rate, exhaust flow rate, specific extinction area, effective heat of combustion, time to ignition, and heat release rate. Sample Preparation and Use A 100% cotton towel was used as a fuel in this experiment. Cotton towels can be considered as a source of toxic gasses such as carbon monoxide and hydrogen cyanide. The towel was folded many times to increase its thickness and make it more compact that will result in an increase in the fire load. The total weight of the cotton towel was found to be 32 grams, and the thickness is 17 mm. Procedure The demonstrator calibrated the apparatus based on manual instructions and used three similar samples of cotton in holder: the sample was set horizontally. The following is the procedure used: Each cotton sample was exposed in two-heat fluxes: the heat fluxes are 25 and 35 kW/m2. The relevant data is recorded automatically by using laptops and Windows software when a sample of cotton had been set in the holder. All the samples were left burnt until self-extinguished. Secure the enclosure box and control the ventilation. The amount of the air entering the compartment was controlled to study the combustion behavior. Three ventilation processes were employed in burning the cotton towel as follows: Ventilation 1 (vent 1): the door been closed for the enclosure box and the inlet air hole of the hose been blocked. Ventilation 2 (vent 2): door been closed for the enclosure box and the inlet air hole diameter for the hose reduced into 6mm. Ventilation 3 (vent 3): the enclosure box door kept the door open. With the assistance of cone calorimeter Windows software and laptop, the data obtained from each parameter is collected during the testing period, and the laptop is used to process the data. The data is then outputted in excel spread files. Different sets of data are computed, which are premised on the heat fluxes exposure. In addition, more data was collected based on the ventilation strategy employed, and these data was titled: vent 1, vent 2 and vent 3. PLAN of WORK The following Gantt diagram summarizes the period to be taken in completing the assignment: It is presumed the research will take ten weeks (two and half months). In the first two weeks, the aims, research, and objectives are reviewed and created. The methodology and will be done in the third and fourth week. Between the first week and the sixth week, the literature review is continuously done and updated. Discussions will be done in the fifth week while the sixth and seventh week, the conclusion, recommendations and presenting for review of the draft paper is complemented. It is expected by the 10th week; the final copy is submitted. Reference Aljumaiah, O., Andrews, G.E., Alqahtani, A.M., Husain, B.F., Singh, P. & Phylaktou, H.N. (2011). Air Starved Acrylic Curtain Fire Toxic Gases Using and FTIR. Proc. Sixth International Seminar on Fire and Explosion Hazards (FEH6), Edited by D. Bradley, G. Makviladze and V. Molkov 11-16 April 2010, University of Leeds, UK. p. 804-816, 2011. Published by Research Publishing, ISBN-13:978-981-08-7724-8. doi:10.3850/978-981-08-7724-8_11-08. Andrews, G. E., Bell, M., Tang, L., Alarifi, A. A. S., & Phylaktou, H. N. (2015). Aircraft Blanket Ignition and Toxic Emission in Simulated Aircraft Cabin Fires Using the Cone Calorimeter. In Fire and Materials 2015 (pp. 734-748). San Francisco, USA: Inter Science Communications Ltd. Andrews, G.E., Li, H., Hunt, A., Hughes, D, Bond, S., Tucker, P., Akram, S. & Phylaktou, H.N. (2007). Toxic Gasses in simulated aircraft interior fires using FTIR analysis. Fifth International Conference on Fire and Explosion Hazards, University of Edinburgh. Proceedings p. 846-855, 2008. Çengel, Y. & Boles, M (2006). Thermodynamics: An Engineering Approach (5th ed.). Boston: McGraw-Hill. ISBN 9780072884951. Ceylan, Ö., Alongi, J., Van Landuyt, L., Frache, A., & De Clerck, K. (2013). Combustion characteristics of cellulosic loose fibres. Fire and Materials, 37(6), 482-490. Chow, W. K. (2002). Review on heat release rate of burning furniture. Europe, 12(14). Retrieved from http://www.bse.polyu.edu.hk/researchCentre/Fire_Engineering/summary_of_output/journal/IJEPBFC/V4/p.54-59,.pdf Fu, Y., Lu, S., Li, K., Liu, C., Cheng, X., & Zhang, H. (2015). An experimental study on burning behaviors of 18650 lithium ion batteries using a cone calorimeter. Journal of Power Sources, 273, 216-222. Huang, G., Gao, J., Wang, X., Liang, H., & Ge, C. (2012). How can graphene reduce the flammability of polymer nanocomposites? Materials Letters, 66(1), 187-189. Kim, J., Lee, J. H., & Kim, S. (2011). Estimating the fire behavior of wood flooring using a cone calorimeter. Journal of Thermal Analysis and Calorimetry, 110(2), 677-683. Lindholm, J., Brink, A., & Hupa, M. (2012). Influence of decreased sample size on cone calorimeter results. Fire and Materials, 36(1), 63-73. Patel, P., Hull, T. R., Stec, A. A., & Lyon, R. E. (2011). Influence of physical properties on polymer flammability in the cone calorimeter. Polymers for Advanced Technologies, 22(7), 1100-1107. Petrella, RV. (1994). The assessment of full-scale fire hazards from cone calorimeter data”, Journal of Fire Sciences, Vol. 12, No. 1, pp. 14-43 (1994). Price, D., Liu, Y., Hull, T. R., Milnes, G. J., Kandola, B. K., & Horrocks, A. R. (2000). Burning behavior of fabric/polyurethane foam combinations in the cone calorimeter. Polymer International, 49(10), 1153-1157. Sacristán, M., Hull, T. R., Stec, A. A., Ronda, J. C., Galià, M., & Cádiz, V. (2010). Cone calorimetry studies of fire retardant soybean-oil-based copolymers containing silicon or boron: Comparison of additive and reactive approaches. Polymer Degradation and Stability, 95(7), 1269-1274. Shi, L., & Chew, M. Y. L. (2013). Fire behaviors of polymers under autoignition conditions in a cone calorimeter. Fire Safety Journal, 61, 243-253. Sonnier, R., Ferry, L., Longuet, C., Laoutid, F., Friederich, B., Laachachi, A., & Lopez‐Cuesta, J. M. (2011). Combining cone calorimeter and PCFC to determine the mode of action of flame‐retardant additives. Polymers for Advanced Technologies, 22(7), 1091-1099. Tata, J., Alongi, J., Carosio, F., & Frache, A. (2011). Optimization of the procedure to burn textile fabrics by cone calorimeter: part I. Combustion behavior of polyester. Fire and Materials, 35(6), 397-409. Thornton, W., (1917). The Relation of Oxygen to the Heat of Combustion of Organic Compounds. Philosophical Magazine and Journal of Science 33: 196-203, http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/14786440208635627 Tsai, K. C. (2009). Orientation effect on cone calorimeter test results to assess fire hazard of materials. Journal of Hazardous Materials, 172(2), 763-772. Vannier, A., Duquesne, S., Bourbigot, S., Castrovinci, A., Camino, G., & Delobel, R. (2008). The use of POSS as synergist in intumescent recycled poly (ethylene terephthalate). Polymer Degradation and Stability, 93(4), 818-826. Yeung, H. A., & Chow, W. K. (2002). Necessity of testing furniture materials with a cone calorimeter. International Journal on Engineering Performance-based Fire Codes, 4(3), 60-67. Zhang, J., Delichatsios, M. A., & Bourbigot, S. (2009). Experimental and numerical study of the effects of nanoparticles on pyrolysis of a polyamide 6 (PA6) nanocomposite in the cone calorimeter. Combustion and Flame, 156(11), 2056-2062. Proposed Supervisor: I agree to supervise this project SIGNED DATE DECLARATION I confirm that the particulars given in this form are correct. I understand that I must prepare my project in English. I declare that all the work done in connection with my project will be my own. SIGNED DATE FOR UNIVERSITY USE ONLY Date Received: Further details required: YES/NO Approved by Registration Committee: YES/NO Supervisor approved: YES/NO Student notified: Date: Read More