Characterising smoke from modern materials and evaluating smoke detectors
Characterising smoke from modern materials and evaluating smoke detectors was written by Raman Chagger and published by BRE in 2014.
The object of this research was to investigate the smoke profiles generated in fire tests specified in the EN 54-7 (commercial) and EN 14604 (domestic) smoke detector standards, and to compare them with smoke produced from burning or smouldering materials commonly found in today‘s service environment.
The four test fires used to assess smoke detectors were developed in the 1980s and represent a broad range of smoke types expected in commercial and domestic environments at the time. However, the materials used in modern homes have changed significantly in recent decades. This research investigated whether smoke detectors could respond to the smoke produced from those new materials during a fire.
The smoke characteristics for a range of new materials were measured and compared with the four test fires. The performance of approved ionisation and optical smoke detectors to the smoke produced from these materials was also assessed. It was confirmed that both ionisation and optical smoke detectors are attuned to detecting certain types of fires and that existing standards remain suitable for assessing these technologies.
The knowledge gained from this study enabled more challenging test fires to be developed that were used during multi-sensor research work.
The contents of the briefing paper are:
- Abstract.
- Introduction.
- Background.
- The current test fires.
- Methodology.
- Results.
- Analysis.
- Summary of results.
- Conclusions and recommendations for further research.
- References.
- Acknowledgements.
You can download the briefing paper at: https://files.bregroup.com/research/Test-Fires-Characterisation_2014-November.pdf
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Key points for construction at a glance with industry reactions.
Functionality, visibility and sustainability
The simpler approach to specification.
Architects, architecture, buildings, and inspiration in film
The close ties between makers and the movies, with our long list of suggested viewing.
SELECT three-point plan for action issued to MSPs
Call for Scottish regulation, green skills and recognition of electrotechnical industry as part of a manifesto for Scottish Parliamentary elections.
UCEM becomes the University of the Built Environment
Major milestone in its 106-year history, follows recent merger with London School of Architecture (LSE).
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.
A people-first approach to retrofit
Moving away from the destructive paradigm of fabric-first.
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.
Skills England publishes Sector skills needs assessments
Priority areas relating to the built environment highlighted and described in brief.
BSRIA HVAC Market Watch - May 2025 Edition
Heat Pump Market Outlook: Policy, Performance & Refrigerant Trends for 2025–2028.
Committing to EDI in construction with CIOB
Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories: CIAT and CICES.
Government Grenfell progress report at a glance
Line by line recomendation overview, with links to more details.
An engaging and lively review of his professional life.
Sustainable heating for listed buildings
A problem that needs to be approached intelligently.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Deadline for entries has been extended to Friday 27 June, so don't miss out!
CIAT at the London Festival of Architecture
Designing for Everyone: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Architecture.
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.