The use of fire-resistant glass partitions not only protects people but also prevents damage to buildings
During a fire, we face risks such as hot gases, smoke, and heat transfer. These dangers can disrupt the safe evacuation of people. Using fire-resistant materials, including glass, can significantly reduce the risk of serious harm to both individuals and structures
Fire-resistant glass, also known as rated glass, fire resistant glass, fire protection glass, or fireproof glass, can be categorized based on the duration of resistance against fire. The most important factor in its performance is maintaining mechanical stability for a specified period of time
Moreover, during a fire, flames and flammable gases must not leak through glass partitions
When a fire occurs in a building, occupants must be able to evacuate as quickly as possible. This evacuation is possible through parts of the building where the fire does not spread. Therefore, dividing a building into multiple compartments is essential to ensure the availability of safe escape routes in the event of a fire. Today, the use of fire-resistant materials is on the rise, and glass, as a widely used material, is no exception
Depending on evacuation time requirements, materials can resist fire for 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour, 1.5 hours, or 2 hours
According to European standards, fire-resistant glass is divided into three groups
Integrity (E): Glass that maintains its stability against flames during fire and prevents the leakage of smoke and toxic gases for a limited time
Radiation Control (EW): These glasses, while maintaining integrity, also limit heat radiation to the opposite side, helping to prevent fire spread and ensuring safe evacuation routes
Insulation (EI): This group not only maintains integrity against fire but also provides thermal insulation, preventing heat transfer. In effect, this type of glass can contain fire within a compartment, allowing longer evacuation time
1. Monolithic Fire-Resistant Glass
A single glass pane with a fire-resistant coating applied to one or both sides. It typically resists fire for 30 or 60 minutes
2. Laminated Fire-Resistant Glass
Consists of two glass layers laminated with a special interlayer and fire-resistant coating. Resistance: 30 or 60 minutes
3. Double-Glazed Fire-Resistant Glass
Provides the advantages of insulated glazing while incorporating fire-rated coated glass. Resistance: 30 to 60 minutes
4. Hydrogel-Filled Double-Glazed Fire-Resistant Glass
Produced by injecting transparent HYDROGEL between two tempered glass layers. During fire, the exposed glass breaks, the hydrogel expands and turns opaque, changing color from clear to milky-white. Depending on gel thickness, resistance ranges from 30 to 120 minutes. Although this type is heavier than standard fire-resistant glass, it offers better acoustic performance
