Evaluating the flammability of wood-based panels and gypsum particleboard using a cone calorimeter

This study examined the combustion characteristics of wood-based panels and gypsum particle board (GPB) made from wood particles using a cone calorimeter according to the ISO 5660-1 specifications. The combustion characteristics of the wood-based panels and GPB were measured in terms of the time to ignition (TTI), heat release rate (HRR), smoke production rate (SPR) and CO yield under a fire condition. The results demonstrated variations in the burning characteristics between the wood-based panels and a significant influence of the surface materials and construction elements on the HRR and SPR. The HRR, SPR and the CO yield of GPB were significantly lower than those of the wood-based panels.

Research highlights
► Fire resistance and thermal stability of GPB : wood-based panels ->gypsum.
► Laminate flooring and wood veneer of the plywood reduced the SPR.
► SPR of GPB was much lower than that of the wood-based panels.
► GPB should be considered as a replacement for wood-based panels.