The Fallout of Single Glazing under Radiant Heat Exposure
MEFE Candidate: Daniel Liang Wei Wong
Co-Supervisors: Dr. Michael Spearpoint, Dr Kai-Yuan Li
Research Aims
The purpose of this research is to investigate the post-fracture behaviour of single glazing when exposed to radiant heat. Glass fallout which usually occurs after the fracture of single glazing creates an opening that allows air to enter a burning compartment providing oxygen to sustain the fire. Based on previous research, fallout may occur under certain levels of heat exposure.
An experimental approach will be used for this research. A hundred glass specimens will be exposed to different levels of heat flux and the amount of fallout for each experiment will be recorded as a function of heat flux and time. This research is estimated to take a period of six month to complete. The six month period will be used to set up the experiment, procure materials, carry out experimental work, analyse the results and submit the research report, and prepare a journal article.
The current method used in fire modelling to deal with the creation of a vent through glass fracture is to assume that the glass completely falls out after initial cracking. This method is not accurate as most types of glass do not behave in this manner. This method can either be conservative or unsafe depending on other factors influencing the growth of the fire.