Smoke prevention performance research experiment

Smoke Prevention Performance Research Experiment – Comprehensive Evaluation of Smoke Suppression, Smoke Density and Visibility for Fire‑Safe Materials and Systems

As an ISO/IEC 17025 accredited independent testing laboratory, we offer specialised smoke prevention performance research experiment services to manufacturers, regulatory authorities, fire safety engineers, and quality assurance teams across the construction, transportation, electronics, and industrial sectors. Smoke – the visible aerosol of combustion products – is responsible for the majority of fire‑related casualties, as it obscures vision, impairs breathing, and contains toxic gases. Smoke prevention performance – the ability of a material, coating, or system to minimise smoke generation, delay smoke release, reduce smoke density, and enhance visibility during a fire – is a critical safety attribute for building materials, cables, interior furnishings, and transportation components. In Chile's diverse infrastructure – from high‑rise buildings in Santiago, to tunnels in the Andes, to mining operations in the Atacama Desert – the control of smoke in fires is essential for occupant evacuation, firefighter access, and property protection. Our research experiments evaluate smoke suppression efficiency, smoke density, optical density, smoke toxicity, and the effectiveness of smoke‑retardant additives under controlled fire conditions. All methods are aligned with ISO, ASTM, EN, and NCh standards, including ISO 5659‑2 (Plastics – Smoke generation – Part 2: Determination of optical density by a single‑chamber test), ASTM E662 (Standard Test Method for Specific Optical Density of Smoke Generated by Solid Materials), EN 13823 (Reaction to fire tests for building products – Single burning item test), ISO 5660‑1 (Cone calorimeter), ASTM D2843 (Density of Smoke from the Burning or Decomposition of Plastics), and NCh 935 (Fire safety – Smoke density testing). Our inspection and test reports are recognised by the Ministry of Public Works (MOP), the Superintendency of Electricity and Fuels (SEC), the National Geology and Mining Service (SERNAGEOMIN), and leading Chilean building, transportation, and industrial companies for product certification, regulatory compliance, and quality assurance.

Materials, Products and Systems We Evaluate

Our smoke prevention research laboratory accommodates a wide range of materials, components, and finished products. Typical test articles include:

• Building materials – insulation foams, wall panels, ceiling tiles, flooring materials, sealants, and adhesives
• Electrical and electronic materials – cable insulation, wire jacketing, printed circuit boards, and electronic enclosures
• Interior furnishings – upholstery fabrics, curtains, carpets, and mattress materials
• Transportation components – aircraft cabin materials, railway interior panels, and automotive interior trims
• Smoke‑retardant additives and coatings – intumescent coatings, flame‑retardant additives, and smoke‑suppressant compounds
• Composite materials – fibre‑reinforced plastics, laminates, and sandwich panels
• Polymers and plastics – thermoplastics, thermosets, and elastomers
• Timber and wood‑based products – treated and untreated timber, plywood, MDF, and OSB

Research Experiment Design – Multi‑Stage Smoke Assessment

Our smoke prevention research experiments are structured in three stages: small‑scale screening, intermediate‑scale evaluation, and full‑scale scenario testing. The design is customised to your specific material, application, and regulatory requirements.

• Stage 1 – Small‑scale screening (cone calorimeter and smoke density chamber) – We perform initial screening using the cone calorimeter (ISO 5660‑1) and the smoke density chamber (ISO 5659‑2 / ASTM E662). The cone calorimeter measures the heat release rate (HRR), total heat release (THR), and smoke production rate (SPR) under a controlled radiant heat flux (35‑75 kW/m²). The smoke density chamber measures the specific optical density (Ds) of the smoke generated by the material under flaming and non‑flaming (smouldering) conditions. The test is performed on small specimens (75 mm × 75 mm) and provides a rapid assessment of the material's smoke generation potential.
• Stage 2 – Intermediate‑scale evaluation (single burning item – SBI test – EN 13823) – We perform the SBI test on larger specimens (typically 1.5 m × 1.0 m) to simulate a realistic fire scenario. The test measures the heat release rate, the smoke production rate, and the flame spread. The smoke production rate is integrated over time to calculate the total smoke production (TSP). The results are used to classify the material according to the Euroclass system (A1, A2, B, C, D, E, F) and to assign the smoke classification (s1, s2, s3). For Chilean building applications, a classification of s1 (low smoke production) is typically required for escape routes.
• Stage 3 – Full‑scale scenario testing (room fire test and tunnel simulation) – For critical applications (e.g., tunnels, underground mines, high‑rise buildings), we perform full‑scale tests in a room‑corner test or a tunnel simulator. The test specimens are installed as they would be in service, and a controlled fire is ignited. The smoke production, smoke movement, and visibility are monitored using a network of smoke detectors, thermocouples, and video cameras. The time to reach the critical visibility threshold (typically 10‑20 metres) is recorded. The results are used to validate the fire safety design of the building or system.

Smoke Density and Optical Density Measurement – Quantifying Visibility Impairment

• Specific optical density (Ds) – ISO 5659‑2 / ASTM E662 / NCh 935 – We measure the specific optical density of the smoke generated by the test specimen using a smoke density chamber. The specimen is exposed to a radiant heat flux of 25‑50 kW/m², and the smoke is collected in a closed chamber. The attenuation of a light beam passing through the smoke is measured continuously. The specific optical density (Ds) is calculated from the attenuation. The maximum optical density (Ds max) and the time to reach a specified optical density (e.g., Ds = 200) are reported. A low Ds (< 100) indicates a low‑smoke material; a high Ds (> 400) indicates a high‑smoke material.
• Smoke production rate (SPR) – ISO 5660‑1 / EN 13823 – We measure the smoke production rate (in m²/s or m²/s·m²) using the cone calorimeter and the SBI test. The SPR is a measure of the rate of smoke generation per unit area. A low SPR (< 0.1 m²/s) is typical for low‑smoke materials; a high SPR (> 0.5 m²/s) is typical for materials that generate a large amount of smoke.
• Total smoke production (TSP) – EN 13823 / ISO 5660‑1 – We integrate the SPR over the test duration to calculate the total smoke production (in m²). The TSP is used for the classification of building materials according to the Euroclass system and the Chilean building code.
• Visibility index (VI) – calculated from the optical density – We calculate the visibility index (in metres) from the optical density using the established relationship: VI = K / Ds, where K is a constant (typically 3‑4 for most materials). The visibility index is a measure of the distance at which a person can see through the smoke. A high visibility index (> 10 m) indicates good visibility; a low visibility index (< 2 m) indicates poor visibility.

Smoke Toxicity and Gas Analysis – Evaluating the Health Hazard

• Gas analysis – ISO 19702 / ASTM E800 / NCh 935 – We use a Fourier‑transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometer and a gas chromatograph to analyse the composition of the smoke generated by the test specimen. The concentrations of the major toxic gases – carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO₂), hydrogen cyanide (HCN), hydrogen chloride (HCl), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), and nitrogen oxides (NOx) – are measured. The results are expressed in ppm or mg/m³.
• Toxicity index (TI) – calculated from the gas concentrations – We calculate the toxicity index (TI) using the formula: TI = Σ (C_i / LC_50,i), where C_i is the concentration of gas i, and LC_50,i is the lethal concentration 50 % for gas i. A TI < 1 indicates that the smoke is not acutely toxic; a TI > 1 indicates that the smoke is potentially lethal.
• Smoke obscuration and toxicity correlation – for assessing the combined effect – We correlate the smoke density (optical density) with the gas toxicity to provide a comprehensive assessment of the smoke hazard. The results are used to set limits for the acceptable smoke production and toxicity of materials in buildings and transportation systems.

Smoke Suppression Efficiency – Evaluating the Effectiveness of Smoke‑Retardant Additives

• Base material vs. treated material comparison – We compare the smoke production of the base material (without additives) with that of the material treated with the smoke‑retardant additive (e.g., intumescent coating, smoke‑suppressant filler, or flame‑retardant additive). The smoke suppression efficiency (SSE) is calculated as: SSE (%) = [(Smoke_Base – Smoke_Treated) / Smoke_Base] × 100. A SSE > 80 % is excellent ; between 60 and 80 % is acceptable ; < 60 % is insufficient.
• Dose‑response curve for smoke‑retardant additives – We test the additive at different concentrations (e.g., 1 %, 2 %, 5 %, 10 %) and measure the smoke production at each concentration. The dose‑response curve is plotted, and the optimal concentration for smoke suppression is determined.
• Synergistic effect of additives – for combination products – We test combinations of different smoke‑retardant additives (e.g., intumescent coating + smoke‑suppressant filler) to evaluate any synergistic or antagonistic effects. The results are used to optimise the formulation of the smoke‑retardant system.
• Smoke suppression under different fire conditions (flaming vs. smouldering) – We evaluate the smoke suppression efficiency under both flaming and non‑flaming (smouldering) conditions, as the smoke composition and the effectiveness of the additives can differ significantly between the two modes.

Smoke Prevention Performance under Different Fire Scenarios – Simulating Real‑World Conditions

• Flaming fire scenario – for evaluating smoke production in a developed fire – We expose the specimen to a high‑intensity flame (using a gas burner or a radiant panel) and measure the smoke production, the smoke density, and the gas composition. The test is performed at a heat flux of 50‑75 kW/m².
• Smouldering fire scenario – for evaluating smoke production in a low‑intensity fire – We expose the specimen to a low‑intensity heat source (e.g., a glowing wire or a smouldering cigarette) and measure the smoke production. The test is performed at a heat flux of 10‑25 kW/m².
• Combined fire scenario – for simulating a developing fire – We expose the specimen to a progressive heat flux (ramp from 0 to 75 kW/m²) to simulate a developing fire. The smoke production, the smoke density, and the gas composition are measured as a function of time and heat flux.
• Mechanical stress during fire – for simulating structural failure – We apply a mechanical load (tension, compression, or bending) to the specimen during the fire test to simulate the effect of structural loading on the smoke production. The test is used to evaluate the smoke prevention performance of load‑bearing structural elements.

Simulation of Extreme Climatic Conditions – Atacama Desert, Patagonia and Coastal Regions

• High‑temperature conditioning – for simulating the Atacama Desert – We condition the specimens at 40 °C, 50 °C, and 60 °C for 48 hours before the smoke test, to simulate the high ambient temperatures of the northern Chilean desert.
• Low‑temperature conditioning – for simulating the Patagonia and the Andes – We condition the specimens at -10 °C, -20 °C, and -30 °C for 48 hours, and then perform the smoke test. The effect of low temperatures on the smoke production is evaluated.
• High‑humidity conditioning – for simulating coastal and southern Chilean climates – We condition the specimens at 95 % RH and 40 °C for 48 hours, and then perform the smoke test. The effect of moisture on the smoke production is evaluated.
• High‑altitude conditioning – for simulating mining operations at 3 000‑5 000 metres – We perform the smoke test in a low‑pressure chamber (simulating altitudes of 3 000‑5 000 m) to evaluate the effect of reduced atmospheric pressure on the smoke density and the gas composition.

Data Analysis and Interpretation – Quantifying Smoke Prevention Performance

• Specific optical density (Ds) – A Ds < 100 is excellent (low smoke) ; between 100 and 300 is acceptable ; > 300 is insufficient (high smoke).
• Smoke production rate (SPR) – A SPR < 0.1 m²/s is excellent ; between 0.1 and 0.3 m²/s is acceptable ; > 0.3 m²/s is insufficient.
• Total smoke production (TSP) – A TSP < 50 m² is excellent ; between 50 and 100 m² is acceptable ; > 100 m² is insufficient.
• Visibility index (VI) – A VI > 10 m is excellent ; between 5 and 10 m is acceptable ; < 5 m is insufficient.
• Toxicity index (TI) – A TI < 0.5 is excellent ; between 0.5 and 1.0 is acceptable ; > 1.0 is insufficient.
• Smoke suppression efficiency (SSE) – SSE > 80 % is excellent ; between 60 and 80 % is acceptable ; < 60 % is insufficient.
• Statistics and uncertainties – For each series of tests (at least 5 specimens), we provide the mean, standard deviation, and coefficient of variation (CV) for each parameter. A CV < 10 % is considered excellent.

Regulatory Compliance and Certification – Supporting MOP, SEC and SERNAGEOMIN Requirements

Chile has a robust regulatory framework for fire safety and smoke prevention, involving several institutions and technical standards:

• MOP – Ministry of Public Works – Sets standards for building materials, including smoke prevention requirements for public buildings, tunnels, and infrastructure.
• SEC – Superintendency of Electricity and Fuels – Regulates the safety of electrical and electronic materials, including cable insulation and electronic enclosures.
• SERNAGEOMIN – National Geology and Mining Service – Establishes safety requirements for materials used in mining operations, including ventilation and fire safety.
• ISO 5659‑2 – Plastics – Smoke generation – Part 2: Determination of optical density by a single‑chamber test – the international standard for smoke density testing.
• ASTM E662 – Standard Test Method for Specific Optical Density of Smoke Generated by Solid Materials – the North American standard for smoke density testing.
• EN 13823 – Reaction to fire tests for building products – Single burning item test – the European standard for intermediate‑scale fire testing.
• ISO 5660‑1 – Reaction‑to‑fire tests – Heat release, smoke production and mass loss rate – Part 1: Heat release rate (cone calorimeter method) – the international standard for cone calorimeter testing.
• NCh 935 – Fire safety – Smoke density testing – the Chilean standard for smoke density testing.
• Application areas in Chile – High‑rise buildings, tunnels and underground structures, mining operations, transportation systems (buses, trains, aircraft), and electrical and electronic equipment.

Advantages of Our Service for the Chilean Market

• ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation – guaranteeing the reliability, traceability, and international acceptance of our results.
• Bilingual reports (Spanish/English) – to facilitate submissions to Chilean authorities and international partners.
• Simulation of extreme climatic conditions – our tests integrate the effects of high temperatures (Atacama Desert), low temperatures (Patagonia and the Andes), high humidity (coastal and southern regions), and high altitude (Andean mines).
• Support for MOP, SEC and SERNAGEOMIN certification – our reports are directly usable for product certification, regulatory compliance, and fire safety design.
• Experience in key industrial sectors – our laboratory has extensive experience in the construction, mining, transportation, and energy sectors.
• Adapted turnaround times – we understand the logistical and commercial constraints of the Chilean market and are committed to delivering results within competitive timeframes.

Conclusion

Smoke prevention performance research experiments are a fundamental tool for guaranteeing the safety of people and property in the event of a fire in Chile's diverse industrial and infrastructure environments. Our testing services, accredited under ISO/IEC 17025 and compliant with the requirements of the MOP, the SEC, SERNAGEOMIN, and international standards, allow you to validate the smoke prevention performance of your materials, optimise your selection, and ensure regulatory compliance. Whether you are a manufacturer, architect, fire safety engineer, mining operator, or regulatory authority, we accompany you in the mastery of smoke prevention performance, from initial testing to final certification.