MXenes are a newly discovered class of two dimensional transition metal carbides, nitrides and carbonnitrides. They are emerging materials for electrochemical storage and possible use in lithiumion batteries for applications such as cell phones and electric vehicles. However, their practical applications are currently limited by challenges with manufacturing, and fire and explosion safety.
We have recently developed our own predictive model to understand soot particle size distribution adopting the Discrete Quadrature Method of Moments (DQMOM) Population Balance Approach (PBA). Using this technique, we can simulate the variation of size and number of particulates for any given time and space in enclosure field. This model incorporates interactive fire phenomena, Read more about Developing a Predictive Model for Soot Particle Distribution[…]
Recent advancement of bio-based aerogels has shown large potential as an absorbent material for resolving the global crude oil leakage issue. Owing to the bio-degradable features, these materials causes less damage to the ocean ecosystem while can effectively remove the oil pollution. A good example of bio-based aerogel material is pectin, which is an organic Read more about Development of bio-based fire retardants from apples[…]
On the 26 October 2018, the ARC Fire Training Centre participated in the UNSW Defence Industry Showcase in Spotless Stadium, Homebush, NSW. The event showcased UNSW excellence in defence research and technology and highlighted the University’s many relevant defence research capabilities and technologies. More than 700 senior defence, defence industry, government and affiliated representatives were Read more about Fire Retardant Materials and Structures Capability Showcased in UNSW defence portfolio[…]
Recently, we have successfully developed a systematic framework to extract key pyrolysis kinetics for wood-based materials (DOI: 10.1177/0734904118800907). We can utilize these kinetics into our fire simulation models to gain more understanding of the burning characteristics of solid combustibles. From there, we are now aiming to further characteristic the morphological structure and detailed gas volatile Read more about Formulating an informative database for flame retarded materials[…]
Original Article New $4.3M research centre in fire safety is working with industry to create a product that will mitigate the flammable building cladding problem How did you feel when you saw the Grenfell Tower fire tragedy in London in 2017? Shock? Horror? Disbelief? How could the fire have spread 19 floors from the fourth Read more about Preventing another Grenfell Tower[…]
Original Article Highly flammable building construction materials and toxic flame retardants commonly found in furniture are set to be made redundant by eco-friendly, non-toxic, durable flame retardants developed with the assistance of Commonwealth funding, announced by Assistant Minster for Science, Jobs and Innovation, Zed Seselja, at UNSW Sydney today. The Development of an Advanced Fire Read more about Senator the Hon Zed Seselja Visits Our Centre[…]
Call for New PhD Candidates New Knowledge on green and durable fire retardant materials and structures advanced fire models for urban and built environment Development of novel fire suppression technologies Reduced-scale and full-scale flammability testings for compliance with fire safety regulatory standards. Competitive Advantage Strong strategic partnerships and collaborationswithin universities, government bodies and domestic Read more about UNSW PhD opportunities available![…]
The intended outcome of this training centre is to accelerate the transformation of Australia’s industries in producing new fire retardant materials, high-value products and engineering services, and to improve the fire safety of lightweight structures and fire protection systems, including fire suppression. Partnering with government bodies, domestic and international companies and universities, this training centre Read more about ARC Training Centre for Fire Retardant Materials and Safety Technologies[…]
Original Article: https://www.engineering.unsw.edu.au/news/computer-simulations-unlock-mystery-of-quakers-hill-fire The partnership between UNSW Engineering and Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) began just before Christmas 2011 – two months after the tragic fire in an aged-care facility in Quakers Hill, in Sydney’s west, that killed 14 residents and injured dozens more. Investigators discovered the arsonist, night-shift registered nurse Roger Dean, lit a fire in one room to divert Read more about Innovative collaboration transforms future of fire investigations[…]