Laboratory evaluation of the effectiveness of nanostructured and conventional particles in clearing smoke in enclosed spaces

The potential of nanostructured and conventional particulate materials in clearing smoke in enclosed spaces was evaluated. Aggregates of metal oxide nanostructured particles or conventional particles were sprayed into an enclosed experimental chamber (2.4 m×2.4 m×3.6 m) filled with glycol smoke. The times required for the light transmission in the room to reach 10% and 20% served as a measure of the effectiveness of the material in clearing smoke. The effects of material type and deployment pressure were considered. Results indicate the potential of some particles in increasing the rate of smoke dissipation and improving the visibility in the smoke-filled chamber.