Review of fire experiments in mass timber compartments: Current understanding, limitations, and research gaps

Abstract The use of mass timber in buildings instead non‐combustible materials has benefits sustainability, aesthetics, construction times, and costs. However, the uptake modern for medium high‐rise is currently hindered by uncertainty regarding safety structural performance fire. We attribute this to a lack data. Insufficient understanding means that building designs beyond current range experiments fire unknown. To address uncertainty, we review available data scientific literature from 63 compartment with timber, majority which cross‐laminated (CLT). found most reached temperatures 80–180°C greater than compartments. Timber ceilings have on average 16% lower char rate walls. heat release contribution positive linear relationship charring rate, however susceptible significant variability. There are limits available, particularly large open‐plan compartments floor areas larger 100 m 2 where wider heating conditions occur. Other topics further required exposed 75%, smaller opening areas, hazard smouldering following flames. Therefore, additional research needed design limits, specifically size, ventilation, exposure. This paper identifies correlations body experimental improve fire‐safe buildings.