Exploring the fire behaviour of recycled plastic

A recent study published in the journal Fire and Materials has evaluated the fire behaviour of recycled plastic pellets.

The research was conducted by Courtney Devine, Natalia Florez-Quiroz, and Prof. Richard Walls from Stellenbosch University’s Fire Engineering Research Unit (FireSUN) and co-authored by Carlo Kuhn from Ignis Fire Testing.

The study, titled Fire Parameters of Recycled Plastic Pellets, investigates critical properties such as ignition time, heat release rates, flame spread, and smoke production to understand the fire risks associated with recycled plastics.

Findings revealed that factors such as material composition, processing methods, and additives significantly influence fire performance.

The research underscores the importance of implementing stringent fire safety measures for industries relying on recycled plastics, such as manufacturing and construction.

The study balances the rising demand for sustainability with the necessity for robust safety standards.

Academic and industry collaboration enhances fire safety research

The study highlights the collaboration between FireSUN and Ignis Fire Testing.

The partnership bridges academic research and industry practices to address practical challenges in fire safety.

Carlo Kuhn from Ignis Fire Testing said: “This collaboration bridges academia and industry to address real-world challenges.

“As the demand for recycled materials rises, understanding their fire behaviour is essential to ensure safety standards are met without compromising sustainability goals.”

Ignis Fire Testing supports initiatives such as training postgraduate students, co-authoring academic articles, and advancing fire safety knowledge.

Dirk Streicher, CEO of Ignis Fire Testing, added: “Our facilities and expertise enable us to support innovative research projects like this one.

“By contributing to studies like these, we’re not only addressing current safety concerns but also shaping the future of fire safety in a more sustainable world.”

Promoting South Africa’s role in fire safety innovation

The research highlights South Africa’s contributions to fire safety and sustainability.

Prof. Richard Walls, head of FireSUN, emphasised the global impact of local expertise.

“Research like this demonstrates South Africa’s capability to lead on a global stage,” said Walls.

“It’s exciting to see local expertise pushing boundaries and making a meaningful impact on fire safety and sustainability worldwide.”

The study not only focuses on the flammability of recycled plastics but also strengthens South Africa’s position as a contributor to international fire safety research.

Summary: flammability of recycled plastic pellets studied by South African researchers

A study published in Fire and Materials evaluates the fire behaviour of recycled plastic pellets, highlighting the need for safety protocols in industries using these materials.

Conducted by researchers from Stellenbosch University’s FireSUN and Ignis Fire Testing, the research examines ignition time, heat release rates, and other key parameters.

The partnership between FireSUN and Ignis demonstrates how academic and industry collaboration can advance fire safety while addressing sustainability goals.

Prof. Richard Walls of FireSUN praised the study’s global impact, showcasing South Africa’s leadership in fire engineering research.

For the full article, visit: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/fam.3248