5/12/2024
Efectis is currently contributing to the Dutch ‘TKI-HTSM residential separating CLT floors’ project in the field of fire safety.
This contribution will be used to develop a framework to consider when designing CLT residential separating floors. This should make the use of CLT in construction more accessible. The use of CLT or Cross Laminated Timber in construction contributes to the achievement of climate targets.
The first step was to outline the relevant fire safety regulations according to the Dutch Environment Buildings Decree (Bbl). The following key performance indicators (kpi’s) for a CLT floor were then distinguished, analysed and evaluated:
- Fire resistance for the load bearing function
- Fire resistance in relation to the separating function
- Smoke permeability
- Fire behaviour
- Fire penetration into the structure
In order to determine the performance, the development of the charring depth during a fire was calculated. The following aspects were considered:
- number of layers of wood
- thickness of each layer the integrity of the bond between the layers
- the integrity of the bond between the layers
- joint and seam widths in the CLT
- possible protection with plasterboard (EN 520)
The integrity of the adhesion between the wood layers in case of fire can be determined by a fire test according to Dutch standard NTA 6125. The result provides input for the design of the CLT construction.
For more information on fire testing and assessment of CLT applications, please contact Tim van der Waart van Gulik