Numerical modeling of char layer falling off in cross-laminated timber (CLT)

Abstract

This paper focuses on investigating the thermal behavior of Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) panels under hightemperature conditions, with a particular emphasis on the delamination of CLTs and their impact on their thermal properties. The study utilizes a finite element method (FEM) model developed using SAFIR software to simulate the behavior of CLT panels exposed to various high-temperature scenarios. The thermal properties derived from the Eurocode 5 and newly obtained properties are compared to assess their accuracy in capturing the post-fall-off behavior of CLT. It is found that the Eurocode data lacks calibration to accurately represent the behavior of CLT after the first fall-off of the fire protection system or when a charred CLT layer is present. A new set of thermal properties specifically tailored for CLT subjected to standard fire conditions is proposed to address this limitation. The simulation results indicate that the newly obtained thermal properties align well with the experimental data, demonstrating their improved reliability in capturing the thermal behavior of CLT. These findings contribute to the development of more accurate fire-resistant design strategies for CLT structures, enhancing their safety and performance in high-temperature environments.