Monte Carlo estimation of thermal radiation from wildland fires

International audienceAs an alternative to the classical deterministic methods, a Monte Carlo method is proposed for the estimation of the radiant heat flux from wildland fires, and thus of fire-safe distances. The solid flame model is used, in which the flame is regarded as a uniformly-radiating surface with a simple geometry. Case studies are presented, ranging from the relatively simple case of planar or cylindrical flames to the case of the more complex geometries of irregular flame fronts where the strategy consists in approximating the front as a collection of individual solid flames. Model results are in good agreement with available data. An attempt is made to estimate the radiant heat flux ahead of a fire front spreading on a heterogeneous landscape. Finally the model is applied to determine the defensible space around a structure in which combustible vegetation has been totally cleared in the aim of reducing the wildfire threat to homes. (C) 2010 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved