Scientific Days

FIRE INVESTIGATION AS AN INTERFACE OF FORENSIC SCIENCE AND FIRE SAFETY

Although they are based on a common corpus of basic knowledge such as combustion science or heat transfer modes, fire safety science and the forensic reconstruction of a fire event significantly differ in their logical process and their use of this corpus of knowledge.

Presentation

FIRE SAFETY: THEORY VS. REALITY

The application of spray foam insulation and other materials that are tested (certified as) non-flammable in building and vessel construction is increasing at the same rate as the demands for energy efficiency and environmental concerns. The presence of those materials in a burned vessel or building makes traditional fire interpretation difficult and makes evidence collection harder and maybe even impossible as it often leads to destruction of forensic evidence on the scene.

Presentation

THE INFLUENCE OF IGNITION LOCATION ON PATTERNS AT THE FIRE SCENE

Horizontal flame spread is a much studied area within fire science and there are many factors that can influence how a fire spreads horizontally over a material’s surface. The point-of-ignition is one such factor that is generally known to have an influence on flame spread and heat release rates and thus fire patterns. Difference in the point-of ignition can dramatically change the fire scenario and the patterns at a fire scene. 

Presentation

LEARNING FROM FAILURE

Starting from an actual example of a fire (solar thermal collectors), we can see if fire investigation can unveil a possibility of a yet unknown outbreak of fire.

We will discuss how this information should/can be transmitted, and how this intelligence can be transformed into actionable knowledge to improve security concepts.