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.

Influence of the cross-sectional shape of the log elements to seal the log walls under the thermal loading

The aim of the research was to perform the medium-scale fire tests of two alternate samples of the log wall, using the radiant heat source. The radiant heat source consisted of a ceramic radiation panel with a maximum power of 50.5 kW.m-2 and a maximum temperature of 935°C. The samples varied by their geometric shape and the different design of the groove, which was sealed with glass mineral wool. A better result was achieved by a round wood sample with the circular section, which also resisted to high temperatures in the place of the groove and did not start burning with flame. The sample of the squared log elements started to burn with a flame. Temperature measured in the groove was much higher than in the first case.