Fire resistance performance of wood materials colored with eco-friendly pomegranate skin (Punica granatum) extracts

The main goal of this study was to determine fire resistance properties of wood treated with pomegranate extract and mordant mixes. According to that wood materials Scotch pine (Pinus sylvestris L.), Oriental beech (Fagus orientalis Lipsky) were chosen. Aluminum sulphate (KAl2(SO4)3.18H2O) copper sulphate (CuSO2.5H2O) and vinegar were used as mordant agent and a synthetic dye was used for comparison. Ultrasonic assisted method were used for extractionthe plant dyestuff from pomegranate skin (Punica granatum) and then applied to wood blocks by immersion (classic) and immersion ultrasonic assisted methods. The combustion test was realized according to ASTM-E 69-02 (2002) standard. The mass losses release of gasses (CO, O2) and the temperature differences of samples were detected for each 30 seconds during combustion. The results showed that the aluminum sulphate mixes were showed the best results on all tests. Unfortunately test performances are not enough to retard the fire effect on the wood materials. Eco-friendly natural colorant might be developed to use them as fire retardant.