Fire risk potential of carton packaging as a thermal insultation material

Potencial de risco de incêndio das embalagens cartonadas como material de isolamento térmico

Abstract

Long-life packaging is being used informally as an alternative to improve thermal insulation in single-family wooden houses. Its usage is backed by environmental concerns to reuse these solid residues as a radiant barrier for heat transmission. However, some published studies have only analyzed its thermal insulation efficiency, without considering the material performance in fire situations. Given this scenario, the objective of this research is to present the analysis and classification to a fire reaction of long-life packaging. In addition to the non-combustibility test, ignitability, radiant wall panel, optical smoke density and single burn item (SBI) tests were carried out. The results showed that the material is combustible and is classified as fire reaction class VI, according to the criteria for special materials. Thus, on the findings of this study, it can be concluded that long-life packaging should not be used as a lining for the internal surfaces of buildings.

Keywords:
Fire safety; Thermal performance; Tetra Pak ^® packages; Recycled material.