Proven results on wood fireproofing

Today, there is a strong demand for fireproofing wood (paneling, planed wood, 3-ply solid wood, plywood, etc.) which is partly explained by the increase in the construction of public buildings (ERP). These buildings use more and more wood, both indoors and outdoors. The regulatory context makes fireproofing this material essential, only doubts remain about its possible applications outdoors. These uncertainties will be dispelled thanks to a future regulatory framework and by Woodenha's research undertaken since January 2010.

The BIME® (Body Fireproofed Wood for Outdoors) program aims to develop a fireproofing solution with a favorable ecotoxicological profile, without constraints regarding gluing or finishing, and effective in both indoor and outdoor environments. Randy Cloridor, a PhD student with a degree in physical chemistry of materials and a specialist in polymers, has been in charge of this project for almost a year and for the next two years in collaboration with the Ecole Supérieure du Bois (ESB).

A better understanding of the mechanisms of autoclave wood fireproofing

The formulation of such a fire retardant is very complex; it is first necessary to understand the operating mechanism of each of the flame retardant molecules because they will not all react in the same way from one wood product to another. Thanks to autoclave tests at the Woodenha company and research at the ESB laboratory, a first step has been taken. We were able to establish a 3D mapping of flame retardants in different types of materials ", explains Randy Cloridor.

This mapping, which is based on the development of a chemical detection of the depth of impregnation of the flame retardant into the wood is essential in the research process, in order to be able to predict a synergy between fire retardant products for adaptation in an outdoor environment and to predict, using color codes, the most accurate and necessary quantity of impregnation for a good reaction to fire.

This advancement now offers the Woodenha company a better understanding of the fireproofing process as a general rule before sending the wood for laboratory testing, which now allows us to guarantee our customers a high success rate in M or Euroclass classifications. During the latest tests, 10 out of 10 wood products presented received a B classification, meaning very flame-retardant.

The next step will be to certify a solution that is resistant to wood aging and bad weather: " Our research has progressed well, now we need to understand the product's operating mechanism and its resistance to climatic factors thanks to the accelerated artificial aging process. ", explains Jean-Baptiste AUREL, creator of Woodenha.

Woodenha and GTFI participate in a future European standard for the fireproofing of wood outdoors

The study of wood aging by 2011 will be carried out as part of a future European standard aimed at assessing the suitability of fire-resistant wood in an outdoor environment (No. prEN 15912). The GTFI, French Technical Group against Fire, and Woodenha, a member and administrator of this professional union, are currently participating in working meetings to define the various rules to be applied in this standard.

This will provide an official assessment method to which architects and inspection offices can refer, thus providing assurance that the product offered on the market is suitable for its final use.

Focus on Jean-Baptiste AUREL:

Wood Expert since October 2010

Sponsored by Pierre-Marie DESCLOS and Constant PERRAULT and following his appearance before the admissions committee on October 15, Jean-Baptiste AUREL was integrated into the Société des Experts Bois.

Member of the GTFI

Jean-Baptiste AUREL has been a member of the French Technical Group against Fire since 2009 and an administrator since October 2010. He thus wishes to have his profession recognized by professional organizations and contribute to developing improvements in fire safety for people and property.

For more information : www.woodenha.com