Fire Detection and Public Safety

A special issue of Fire (ISSN 2571-6255). This special issue belongs to the section "Fire Risk Assessment and Safety Management in Buildings and Urban Spaces".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 April 2024 | Viewed by 13756

Special Issue Editors

1. Institute of Public Safety Research, Department of Engineering Physics, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
2. Beijing Key Laboratory of City Integrated Emergency Response Science, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
3. Hefei Institute for Public Safety Research, Tsinghua University, Hefei 320601, China

Interests: fire detection; electrical fire; IOTs for fire protection; public safety; emergency information system
Department of Fire Protection Engineering, Central South University, Changsha 410075, China
Interests: fire science and smart fire-fighting; tunnel fire prevention and control and fire safety; urban public safety and emergency management; fire resistance of major engineering structures
State Key Laboratory of Fire Science, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, China
Interests: fire dynamics and control technology in special environments
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

To reduce the risk of fire, the implementation of innovative and effective fire early warning technologies is essential. Despite the fact that research publications on fire detection technology have addressed the issue to some extent, fire detection technology still confronts hurdles in decreasing false alerts, improving sensitivity and dynamic responsibility, and providing protection for costly and complicated installations. On the other hand, the worldwide development of intelligent buildings and systems also puts forward new requirements for the integration and intelligence of fire detection.

Therefore, we are pleased to invite researchers from all over the world to explore novel and reliable fire-detection technologies, including emerging sensor technology, fire signal processing and monitoring technology, fire risk analysis and insurance, and integrated very early fire detection systems for building fires. This Special Issue wishes to provide insights into the frontiers of the latest progress in fire detection and monitoring strategies.

This Special Issue also focuses on advanced methods and techniques for fire control and suppression, as well as new progress in fire-related public safety issues. In this Special Issue, original research articles and reviews are welcome. Research areas may include (but are not limited to) the following:

  • Building fire, industrial fire, or forest fire detection;
  • Fire detection and fire dynamics;
  • Flame, smoke, and/or gas detection;
  • Multi parameter composite detection;
  • Electronic fire risk and detection;
  • Sensors associated with fire detection;
  • Fire detection algorithms;
  • Fire-related public safety issues;
  • Fire sensors for specific locations and extreme conditions;
  • New concept of fire monitoring and response systems.

Prof. Dr. Tao Chen
Prof. Dr. Changkun Chen
Dr. Jun Fang
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Fire is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • fire detection
  • flame, smoke, and/or gas detection
  • fire detection algorithms
  • fire-related public safety issues
  • fire sensors for specific locations and extreme conditions
  • new concept of fire monitoring and response systems

Published Papers (8 papers)

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Research

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14 pages, 9034 KiB  
Article
Experimental Study on Combustion Behavior of U-Shaped Cables with Different Bending Forms and Angles
by Changkun Chen, Wuhao Du and Tong Xu
Fire 2023, 6(9), 348; https://doi.org/10.3390/fire6090348 - 06 Sep 2023
Viewed by 908
Abstract
Cables are usually bent into a U-shape to cross obstacles during installation: this includes the upward-bending mode (UBM) and the downward-bending mode (DBM). An experimental study was conducted to investigate the combustion behavior of U-shaped cables with the above bending forms and different [...] Read more.
Cables are usually bent into a U-shape to cross obstacles during installation: this includes the upward-bending mode (UBM) and the downward-bending mode (DBM). An experimental study was conducted to investigate the combustion behavior of U-shaped cables with the above bending forms and different angles. The ignition point was set in the middle of the U-shaped cables and the temperature distribution, flame spread rate (FSR), mass loss rate (MLR), flame dimensional characteristics, etc. were measured and analyzed. The results showed that FSR and MLR are positively related to the bending angles, and the FSR is the highest in UBM 90°, close to 6.51 cm/min, which is four times higher than that in the bending angle 0° condition. In the UBM, the heat radiation and convection from the cable flame to the unburned region were more intense and the “eruptive fire phenomenon” occurred during the combustion process, leading to a sharp increase in the FSR in a short time. However, the thermal convection and radiation from the burning region to the unburned region were weakened in the DBM. Meanwhile, the molten outer sheath (PE) would flow along the cables, heating and igniting the unburned region in the DBM. In addition, the FSR, MLR, and peak temperature increased in the UBM compared to the DBM. The highest flame temperature occurred in UBD 90°, approximately 1023 °C. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fire Detection and Public Safety)
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20 pages, 9771 KiB  
Article
Indoor Air Quality Sensor Utilization for Unwanted Fire Alarm Improvement in Studio-Type Apartments
by Han-bit Choi, Euy-hong Hwang and Don-mook Choi
Fire 2023, 6(7), 255; https://doi.org/10.3390/fire6070255 - 29 Jun 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1142
Abstract
Smoke detectors play a vital role in evacuation and safety during fire incidents, as they directly contribute to the reliability and accuracy of firefighting systems. However, if not installed properly, smoke detectors can trigger unwanted fire alarms (UWFAs), particularly in studio-type apartments. Therefore, [...] Read more.
Smoke detectors play a vital role in evacuation and safety during fire incidents, as they directly contribute to the reliability and accuracy of firefighting systems. However, if not installed properly, smoke detectors can trigger unwanted fire alarms (UWFAs), particularly in studio-type apartments. Therefore, this study aimed to develop a method for reducing UWFAs by addressing the challenges posed by cooking by-products in such environments. The proposed algorithm was validated through tests, considering relevant literature and standards, and utilizing indoor air quality sensors. Verification tests were conducted to enhance the accuracy of the algorithm. Based on the experimental results, cutoff values of 5 ppm for CO and 7000 μg/m3 for PM10.0 were proposed as criteria for identifying UWFAs caused by cooking by-products. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fire Detection and Public Safety)
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14 pages, 2061 KiB  
Article
Study on Location of Fire Stations in Chemical Industry Parks from a Public Safety Perspective: Considering the Domino Effect and the Identification of Major Hazard Installations for Hazardous Chemicals
by Junhao Jiang, Xiaochun Zhang, Ruichao Wei, Shenshi Huang and Xiaolei Zhang
Fire 2023, 6(6), 218; https://doi.org/10.3390/fire6060218 - 27 May 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1317
Abstract
In order to select the location of fire stations more scientifically and improve the efficiency of emergency management in chemical industry parks (CIPs), an improved risk calculation model for hazardous chemicals has been proposed by taking the domino effect and the identification of [...] Read more.
In order to select the location of fire stations more scientifically and improve the efficiency of emergency management in chemical industry parks (CIPs), an improved risk calculation model for hazardous chemicals has been proposed by taking the domino effect and the identification of major hazardous installations for hazardous chemicals into account. In the analysis of the domino effect, the Monte Carlo simulation was used. Then, a location model of the fire stations was established with the optimization objectives of minimizing total cost and maximizing total risk coverage. The solving procedure of the location model is based on the augmented ε-constraint method combined with the TOPSIS method. Finally, a green chemical industry park was used as a case study for the validation and analysis of the location model. The results showed that the improved model could protect the high-risk areas, which is beneficial for the location decisions of fire stations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fire Detection and Public Safety)
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13 pages, 5860 KiB  
Article
Improved Particle Swarm Path Planning Algorithm with Multi-Factor Coupling in Forest Fire Spread Scenarios
by Kaiyi Lin, Lifan Zhang, Lida Huang, Zhili Feng and Tao Chen
Fire 2023, 6(5), 202; https://doi.org/10.3390/fire6050202 - 13 May 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1185
Abstract
In this paper, a solution based on an improved particle swarm algorithm is proposed for the path planning problem without a road network in forest fire rescue scenarios. The algorithm adopts an adaptive inertia weight and a dynamically updated learning factor strategy to [...] Read more.
In this paper, a solution based on an improved particle swarm algorithm is proposed for the path planning problem without a road network in forest fire rescue scenarios. The algorithm adopts an adaptive inertia weight and a dynamically updated learning factor strategy to enhance the global and local search capabilities of the algorithm. In terms of cost function design, the article considers three factors: path length, terrain slope, and obstacle avoidance ability to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the path. The experimental results show that: (1) the path planning algorithm based on improved particle swarm optimization can effectively avoid spreading wildfire and reach the designated target point with a good “detour” effect; (2) the path planned by the improved PSO algorithm performs better than the original PSO algorithm in terms of fitness evaluation and average slope; and (3) changes in the particle population, dimensions, and learning factors in the particle swarm optimization algorithm can affect the convergence of the final path. Increasing the particle dimensions can bring more reasonable and specific paths; decreasing the learning factor increases the convergence iterations, but also obtains a better path planning solution and higher fitness. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fire Detection and Public Safety)
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18 pages, 7896 KiB  
Article
Dual-Wavelength Smoke Detector Measuring Both Light Scattering and Extinction to Reduce False Alarms
by Kaiyuan Li, Gang Liu, Hongyong Yuan, Yang Chen, Yunzhi Dai, Xiangrui Meng, Yuxin Kang and Lida Huang
Fire 2023, 6(4), 140; https://doi.org/10.3390/fire6040140 - 01 Apr 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2980
Abstract
Existing fire smoke detectors use the intensity of scattering light or the light extinction coefficient as the indicator of fire smoke to trigger fire alarms. However, false fire alarms could be triggered by dust and water fog. Achieving reliable early fire detection with [...] Read more.
Existing fire smoke detectors use the intensity of scattering light or the light extinction coefficient as the indicator of fire smoke to trigger fire alarms. However, false fire alarms could be triggered by dust and water fog. Achieving reliable early fire detection with minimal false alarms is a challenge. Based on the Mie scattering theory of spherical particles, it is derived that the ratio of scattering intensity and the ratio of optical extinction of two incident lights with different wavelengths only depends on the intrinsic properties of the aerosol (the average particle size and refractive index). This paper then presents an improved dual-wavelength smoke detection by measuring scattering light and extinction simultaneously to reduce false alarms. Simulations and verification with test fires of European Standard EN 54 were performed, demonstrating that fires can be distinguished from nuisance sources without complicated calculations. These results indicate that the improved detection system can be applied for smoke monitoring and fire protection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fire Detection and Public Safety)
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23 pages, 8467 KiB  
Article
Optimization of Smoke-Detector Installation Location Based on Effect of Fan Equipment inside Distribution Panel on Fire Detection Performance
by In-Mo Gu, Yeong-Mo Yeon, Dong-Seok Ryu and Seung-Hee Kim
Fire 2023, 6(2), 49; https://doi.org/10.3390/fire6020049 - 28 Jan 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2573
Abstract
Inhalation and exhaust fans are installed inside a distribution panel for cooling. However, in the event of fire inside the panel, these fans change the flow of smoke, which interferes with quick detection by fire sensors installed on the panel ceiling, thereby increasing [...] Read more.
Inhalation and exhaust fans are installed inside a distribution panel for cooling. However, in the event of fire inside the panel, these fans change the flow of smoke, which interferes with quick detection by fire sensors installed on the panel ceiling, thereby increasing fire damage. The purpose of this study is to develop a smoke detector that can be installed inside distribution panels and to propose an optimal smoke detector position based on the influence of the position on detection performance. To this end, an experimental distribution panel was fabricated and four smoke detector samples were installed near the fans. The smoke detection performance experiment was repeated on ignition source positions corresponding to widths of 15, 30, 45, and 50 cm, a depth of 55 cm, and heights of 0, 30, and 60 cm. The results indicated that the smoke detection performance and CO absorption concentration were higher when the smoke detector was positioned closer to the left or right side of the exhaust fan. In particular, compared with current designs in which smoke detectors are installed on distribution panel ceilings, the elapsed time until smoke detection decreased by 75%, whereas the CO absorption concentration increased by more than 100%. This study presents a theoretical ground for the installation of built-in smoke detectors near exhaust fans for closed power industry equipment that includes airflow-changing devices. Additionally, this study raises awareness on the importance of fire sensors and the need to improve policies and standards for fire prevention. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fire Detection and Public Safety)
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21 pages, 6553 KiB  
Technical Note
A Prediction Model for Smoke Spread Path in High Rise Building Fires Based on Graph Theory
by Haoyou Zhao, Zhaoyang Yu and Jinpeng Zhu
Fire 2023, 6(7), 258; https://doi.org/10.3390/fire6070258 - 30 Jun 2023
Viewed by 1244
Abstract
To satisfy the demand for rapid prediction of smoke transmission paths in high-rise building fires, a graph-based model was developed. The model represents a high-rise building as a Directed Acyclic Graph (DAG) grid model and employs computer simulation to determine the smoke transmission [...] Read more.
To satisfy the demand for rapid prediction of smoke transmission paths in high-rise building fires, a graph-based model was developed. The model represents a high-rise building as a Directed Acyclic Graph (DAG) grid model and employs computer simulation to determine the smoke transmission path and generate prediction results. The results were compared with those from similar simulations and were found to be consistent, indicating the feasibility and objective nature of the prediction results. Compared to other methods, this model has a shorter modeling time and can quickly provide prediction results. Furthermore, it can be applied to buildings of any structure, thus serving as a reference for smoke control design in high-rise building fire protection systems, particularly in cases involving complex internal structures. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fire Detection and Public Safety)
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15 pages, 6328 KiB  
Technical Note
Development and Experimental Study of Mobile Fire Smoke Decontamination System
by Hongyong Yuan, Yang Zhou, Fan Zhou, Lida Huang and Tao Chen
Fire 2023, 6(2), 55; https://doi.org/10.3390/fire6020055 - 03 Feb 2023
Viewed by 1078
Abstract
Fire smoke decontamination equipment, such as fire-fighting robots and smoke exhaust robots, is mainly used in long and narrow spaces such as underground garages. In several recent decades, the study of fire smoke spread in narrow spaces and fire smoke decontamination equipment stimulated [...] Read more.
Fire smoke decontamination equipment, such as fire-fighting robots and smoke exhaust robots, is mainly used in long and narrow spaces such as underground garages. In several recent decades, the study of fire smoke spread in narrow spaces and fire smoke decontamination equipment stimulated the interests of many researchers. However, present equipment cannot eliminate insoluble toxic gases such as CO and may decrease the height of the smoke layer, causing great difficulty to rescue. In this study, a novel mobile fire smoke decontamination process and system are proposed. The experimental study and theoretical prediction of the system are conducted. The results show that the developed equipment is able to eliminate fire smoke particles and CO, cool the space, and improve the visibility of the fire site. The developed equipment can reduce the space temperature to below 60 °C, reduce the CO concentration to below 145 ppm, and enhance the visibility to more than 50 m in the rectangular tunnel after operating for 30 min under 4 MW fire condition. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fire Detection and Public Safety)
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