Fire Simulations of a Container Ship with FRP Structures

Fire simulations of a container ship with fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) structures have been performed. The fire safety effect of using FRP as the primary construction material of the vessel was studied, compared to conventional steel structures. The effect of FRP structures on fire development was assessed by comparing the simulated gas temperatures and heat release rates with FRP and steel structures. The effect of protective mineral wool and intumescent coating layers was quantified. The simulation results highlight that FRP structures present a significant fire load by themselves, and should be well protected. Mineral wool was found to be better protection than the intumescent coating: it can either prevent or postpone the pyrolysis of the FRP bulkhead, depending on the fire exposure. Early detection and containment of the fire are of high importance for preventing fire spread