Improving the thermal stability and fire safety of PVC formworks

Abstract

This study examines the impact of materials and compositions on the fire design considerations of plastic formworks, focusing on the influence of building materials on the fire resistance of buildings, the safety of occupants, and the environment. The study investigates the chemical properties of formworks, including heat resistance, UV resistance, and smoke suppressant properties, which are essential for developing and optimizing formwork products. The research covers three key areas for improving thermal behaviour of PVC: (a) the development and evaluation of new metal complexes with dipentaerythritol, (b) cementitious compositions as a novel class of thermal stabilizers, and (c) the development and evaluation of a new synergistic thermo stabilizer based on sodium hexametaphosphate. To investigate the thermal degradation procedures of each additive for fire retardancy workability, the study utilizes advanced techniques such as thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS). The results demonstrate that hydrated cementitious materials are more effective in stabilizing PVC than metal chelates of dipentaerythritol or synergistic stabilizers based on sodium hexametaphosphate. Moreover, the study found that zinc, as a metal complex with dipentaerythritol, is more effective than traditional stabilizers. The research on cementitious compositions also revealed their highly economical, environmentally friendly, and compatible nature, making them an attractive option for use in the PVC formwork construction industry. The study also highlights the positive impact of calcium metaborate and sodium hexametaphosphate in improving the thermal behaviour of PVC. The study emphasizes the significance of fire-resistant materials in ensuring the safety of occupants and the environment, and the need for innovative solutions to enhance their effectiveness. In conclusion, this research underscores the importance of materials and compositions in the fire design considerations of plastic formworks. The study's findings can imply the development of more effective and sustainable fire-resistant materials and promote safer buildings.

Date of Award	2021
Original language	English