A Mathematical Model of the Smoke Layer Evolution in Compartment Fires

Abstract

The paper describes a mathematical model suitable to calculate the evolution in time of the smoke layer thick- ness and temperature during a compartment fire, and to estimate the time required to fill the compartment as a function of the thermophysical properties of the flame and of the compartment geometry. The model also allows one to calculate the volumetric flow rate and the enthalpy flow of the smoke through the openings in the building envelope, which are directly related to the environmental impact of the fire.