External Wall Insulation Fire Safety: EWI Fire Risks

External wall insulation refers to the process of insulating the exterior walls of a building in order to provide improved thermal performance and energy efficiency. This is achieved simply by adding a layer of insulation material, such as polystyrene or mineral wool onto the outer surface of the walls

The insulation material is then covered with a protective render or cladding. The practice has become increasingly popular in recent years as more and more people have become aware of the benefits that it can offer

External wall insulation can reduce heat loss through walls by up to 40%, resulting in lower energy bills and a reduced carbon footprint. It also improves the appearance of buildings, as well as providing additional soundproofing benefits

Building safety is of utmost importance, and external wall insulation plays a critical role in ensuring that buildings are not only energy efficient but also compliant with fire safety regulations. This article provides an overview of the types of external wall insulation and the importance of fire resistance in these systems. We have explored various materials and techniques used to enhance fire resistance in external wall insulation systems, as well as the maintenance and inspection requirements to ensure their longevity.

What is External Wall Insulation

External wall insulation can be defined as an insulating layer applied to external walls which also provides additional protection against weathering and noise pollution. The thickness of this layer varies depending on factors such as climate, building type, and local regulations, but generally ranges between 50mm and 300mm. There are two main types of external wall insulation: wet facade systems and dry facade systems.

Wet facade systems are those where the insulating layer is applied using a wet mortar mix which is then rendered over to provide protection against moisture ingress. Meanwhile, dry facade systems involve attaching prefabricated panels directly onto the exterior walls using mechanical fixings.

Importance of Fire Resistance in External Wall Insulation

One important consideration when installing external wall insulation is fire safety. In recent years there have been several high profile incidents where fires have spread rapidly through buildings that had external wall insulation installed without sufficient fire protection measures.

The Grenfell Tower disaster in London was one such incident where combustible cladding was used on the exterior walls, causing the fire to spread rapidly throughout the building’s upper floors with devastating consequences. This tragedy highlighted the importance of ensuring that external wall insulation not only provides thermal performance but must also be fire resistant.

Fire resistance in external wall insulation is achieved through the use of non combustible or low combustible materials that can withstand high temperatures without causing flames to spread. These materials include rock wool, mineral wool and glass wool

Overall, external wall insulation is a cost effective and efficient way to improve the energy efficiency of buildings while also enhancing their aesthetic appearance. However, it is important to ensure that fire safety measures are properly implemented to prevent devastating incidents like Grenfell Tower from occurring in the future

Understanding External Wall Insulation

Types of External Wall Insulation:

External Wall Insulation is a technique that involves the application of insulating material to the external walls of a building, providing an additional thermal layer. There are different types of external wall insulation available, including: 

1.Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) – This type of insulation is made from polystyrene beads that are expanded and fused together to form rigid panels. EPS insulation is lightweight and easy to install, making it one of the most commonly used types of external wall insulation.

2. Mineral Wool – Mineral wool is made from natural rock or slag, which is melted and then spun into fibres.

It can be installed as batts or blown-in insulation between the wall frame and exterior cladding. 

3.Phenolic Foam – Phenolic foam insulation is a type of rigid foam that is manufactured by mixing phenol-formaldehyde resin with a blowing agent. It has excellent thermal properties and can be used in various applications.

Fire Resistance in External Wall Insulation

The Importance of External Wall Insulation Fire Safety in Buildings

Buildings, especially large commercial structures, are at risk of fire. The consequences of a fire can be catastrophic, leading to death, injury and property damage

That is why it is essential to ensure that buildings are constructed with fire safety in mind. External wall insulation plays a crucial role in ensuring that buildings meet these requirements

External wall insulation not only improves energy efficiency but also adds an extra layer of protection against fire. In the event of a fire breakout, the external wall insulation should have sufficient protection to prevent flames from penetrating into the interior walls.

Causes of Fire in Buildings

Fires occur as a result of several factors such as electrical faults, smoking materials or candles left unattended and cooking appliances left on for extended periods. Inadequate maintenance and failure to adhere to building codes and regulations can also result in fires.

In recent years, there has been an increased awareness regarding the dangers associated with combustible materials used for building construction. As such, many countries worldwide have adopted stringent safety regulations aimed at protecting both people and property from the dangers associated with fires

Importance of Fire Resistance in Buildings

One of the primary reasons why external wall insulation in the UK should be fire-resistant is because it forms part of the building’s structural components. Therefore, any damage caused by flames could severely compromise the building’s integrity, potentially leading to a loss of life. A robust fire resistant system provides much needed reassurance for building occupants, offering them adequate protection from potential fire hazards

Poor quality external wall insulation systems can result in devastating consequences during a fire outbreak. The UK Building Regulations stipulate that all external walls should provide appropriate resistance to the spread of fire without compromising structural stability. This is crucial in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of building occupants and the wider community

Standards for Fire Resistance In External Wall Insulation

For buildings situated in areas at high risk of fire, the need for fire resistant external wall insulation is an important  consideration. The UK Building Regulations outline several standards and regulations that building owners must adhere to ensure that their buildings are safe.

The Regulations specify a minimum performance requirement for external wall insulation systems used in commercial buildings. The UK Building Regulations stipulate that the materials used for external wall insulation should be non combustible or suitable for use in high risk environments.

These requirements cover all aspects of the building from its design, construction to maintenance and repair. Ensuring adequate fire safety measures in buildings remains a top priority for all stakeholders involved in construction projects

Fire resistant external wall insulation plays a critical role in this regard, providing much needed protection against potential hazards resulting from fires. Building owners must adhere to the set regulations and guidelines to ensure that they install high-quality, durable systems with excellent fire-resistant capabilities

Materials and Techniques for Fire Resistant External Wall Insulation

Materials Used for Fire-Resistant External Wall Insulation

Fire-resistant external wall insulation materials are essential for ensuring the safety of buildings, occupants, and their surrounding communities. The materials used must be able to withstand intense heat and prevent the spread of flames. For this purpose, manufacturers have developed fire-resistant insulation materials that can resist the spread of fire by forming a barrier against it.

One of the most common types of fire-resistant insulation material is mineral wool. It is made from volcanic rock or basalt and has excellent thermal performance properties.It can withstand temperatures up to 1,000°C without melting or burning, making it an ideal choice for fire-resistant insulation. 

Techniques Used for Installing Fire-Resistant External Wall Insulation

When installing fire-resistant external wall insulation systems, special attention must be paid to ensuring that they are properly installed and sealed off from any potential sources of ignition. These systems typically consist of multiple layers that work together to provide maximum protection against fire hazards

The first step in installing these systems is preparing the wall surface by cleaning it thoroughly and repairing any damages. Once ready the installer applies adhesive mortar or screws anchors onto which they can attach the insulation panels

After attaching these panels using screws or adhesive mortar, installers then apply an insulating core layer over them before finishing off with a protective rendering coat on top to add further protection against moisture penetration into the building structure. To ensure proper installation, it is important that the installer follows manufacturer guidelines and uses the right tools and equipment, such as drills, cutters, and measuring devices, to achieve a high-quality finish

Quality Assurance of EWI

To ensure that fire-resistant external wall insulation systems are of good quality and will perform well in the event of a fire emergency, quality assurance is critical. There are several bodies responsible for setting standards and testing these systems to ensure they meet regulatory requirements

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has developed standards for fire-resistant building materials. In addition, the Building Research Establishment (BRE) conducts tests on insulation materials to ensure they can withstand high temperatures without melting or burning.

Furthermore, manufacturers conduct their own independent testing to guarantee that their products comply with all relevant regulations. All these efforts work together to enhance public safety by ensuring that only high-quality fire resistant external wall insulation systems are used in buildings.

Sustainability Considerations of EWI materials

Sustainability is an important consideration when selecting materials for fire-resistant external wall insulation systems. The use of environmentally friendly materials helps reduce carbon emissions while providing adequate protection against fire hazards.

Mineral wool, which is made from abundant natural resources such as basalt or volcanic rocks and recycled glass bottles or non hazardous waste materials like slag could be considered sustainable. The production process also involves minimal energy consumption.

Additionally, some manufacturers have started using bio-based alternatives like sheep’s wool or cellulose fibre made from recycled paper in place of traditional petrochemicals like polystyrene foam. These eco-friendly alternatives offer an excellent level of thermal performance while reducing environmental impacts at the same time

British Board of Agrément (BBA) and EWI Fire Safety 

The British Board of Agrément (BBA) plays a crucial role in the assessment and certification of External Wall Insulation (EWI) systems, including their fire safety. Here’s a detailed explanation of their role and how they determine the fire safety of EWI:

Role of BBA in External Wall Insulation (EWI):

The BBA is a UK body issuing certificates for construction products and systems and providing inspection services in support of their designers and installers. The BBA’s certification process for EWI involves rigorous testing, inspection and ongoing surveillance to ensure that the products are fit for purpose.

The BBA assesses and certifies all components of an EWI system, including insulation materials, fixings, reinforcement materials, and render finishes. The certification process involves:

• Initial assessment of the product or system, including laboratory testing and evaluation of production.
• Production process assessment, which includes factory production control, documentation, and quality control procedures.
• Ongoing surveillance to ensure that the product continues to meet the certification requirements

Determining Fire Safety of EWI:

The BBA assesses the fire performance of EWI systems as part of their certification process. This involves testing the system’s reaction to fire and its fire resistance.

• Reaction to Fire: This tests how a material contributes to a fire, including its ignitability, flame spread, heat release, smoke production, and propensity for producing flaming droplets or particles. The tests are carried out in accordance with the relevant parts of BS EN 13501.
• Fire Resistance: This tests the ability of a system to resist the passage of fire from one side of a wall to the other, and to maintain its structural integrity in a fire. The tests are carried out in accordance with BS 476 or BS EN 1364.

The BBA also assesses the installation process of the EWI system to ensure that it is installed in a way that minimises the risk of fire spread. This includes the correct installation of fire barriers and cavity barriers.

It’s important to note that the BBA’s certification does not replace the need for a building to comply with the Building Regulations, which set out the legal requirements for fire safety in buildings. The BBA’s certification provides assurance that a product or system, if installed correctly, can meet these requirements.

Maintenance and Inspection of EWI Installations 

External wall insulation, like any other building element, requires regular maintenance to function at its best. Regular inspections and upkeep of the external wall insulation system ensure that it remains efficient while also identifying any issues or defects that could potentially escalate into more significant problems. Proper maintenance and inspection of the external wall insulation system extend its lifespan while also ensuring optimal fire resistance

Importance of Regular Maintenance and Inspection of EWI installations 

Regular maintenance of external wall insulation is essential as it helps identify any defects or issues that may cause damage to the building. Typically, routine maintenance includes checking for cracks in the cladding, ensuring the cavity between the cladding and insulation is clear of debris or moisture build up among others

Without proper upkeep or prompt repairs, small problems can turn into significant damage requiring expensive repairs. One primary reason why regular maintenance is critical for external wall insulations is its role in maintaining a building’s fire resistance capability.

Any damage to the external wall insulation layer can compromise the system’s integrity, reducing its ability to withstand fires effectively. Therefore to ensure optimal performance in case of a fire breakout, it’s crucial always to keep up with maintenance checks

Building Safety Changes since the Tragedy of Grenfell Tower Fire in 2017

Significant changes have taken place in the UK’s building safety regulations since the Grenfell Tower fire in 2017. The UK government has committed to delivering the biggest change in building safety for a generation.Below is a brief outline of these implemented changes:

1. Establishment of the Building Safety Regulator: The UK government has established a new Building Safety Regulator within the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). This regulator is responsible for overseeing the design, construction, and occupation of high-risk buildings, ensuring they meet safety and performance standards
2. Clarified and Consolidated Advice for Building Owners: The government has set out clarified and consolidated advice for building owners on actions they should take to ensure their buildings are safe. This includes a focus on their external wall systems, commonly referred to as cladding
3. Public Naming of Non-compliant Building Owners: From 2020, the government started to publicly name building owners where remediation has not started to remove unsafe Aluminium Composite Material (ACM) cladding from their buildings
4. Consultation on Extending the Ban on Combustible Materials: The government has consulted on extending the ban on combustible materials to buildings below 18 metres
5. Fire Safety Bill: The government has introduced a Fire Safety Bill to Parliament, which clarifies the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. This requires residential building owners to fully consider and mitigate the risks of any external wall systems and front doors to individual flats.
6. Remediation of Buildings with ACM Cladding: The government has appointed a construction expert to review remediation timescales and identify what can be done to improve pace in the private sector. They are also considering different options to support the remediation of buildings, including options to mitigate costs for individuals or provide alternative financing routes

These changes aim to improve building safety standards and ensure that a tragedy like the Grenfell Tower fire does not happen again

The Euroclass Classification System for fire rating Insulation Materials

The Euroclass system is a European standard (EN 13501-1) that classifies the fire performance of building materials. It is based on a series of tests that measure different aspects of fire behaviour, including ignitability, flame spread, heat release, smoke production and the production of flaming droplets or particles.

Here’s a detailed explanation of the Euroclass classifications:

• A1: Non-combustible materials. These materials do not contribute to a fire at any stage, including the fully developed fire. Examples include most inorganic materials such as metals and stone.
• A2: Non-combustible materials. These materials make a very limited contribution to a fire. They have a maximum heat release and flame spread over the product, and they may contain a small amount of organic material.
• B: These materials have very limited fire growth. They have a higher heat release and flame spread than A2 materials, but they still offer a good level of fire safety.
• C: These materials have limited fire growth. They have a higher heat release and flame spread than B materials.
• D: These materials have medium fire growth. They have a higher heat release and flame spread than C materials.
• E: These materials have high fire growth. They have a higher heat release and flame spread than D materials.
• F: No performance determined. These materials have not been tested or have failed to meet the requirements of E class.

Euroclass	Description
A1	Non-combustible materials. No contribution to fire at any stage.
A2	Non-combustible materials. Very limited contribution to fire.
B	Very limited fire growth.
C	Limited fire growth.
D	Medium fire growth.
E	High fire growth.
F	No performance determined.

In addition to these main classes, there are also additional classifications related to smoke production (s1, s2, s3) and flaming droplets/particles (d0, d1, d2):

• s1: Little or no smoke. These materials produce a small amount of smoke during combustion.
• s2: Quite a lot of smoke. These materials produce a moderate amount of smoke during combustion.
• s3: Substantial smoke. These materials produce a large amount of smoke during combustion.
• d0: No flaming droplets/particles. These materials do not produce any flaming droplets or particles during combustion.
• d1: Some flaming droplets/particles. These materials produce a moderate amount of flaming droplets or particles during combustion.
• d2: Quite a lot of flaming droplets/particles. These materials produce a large amount of flaming droplets or particles during combustion.

Additional Classification	Description
s1	Little or no smoke.
s2	Quite a lot of smoke.
s3	Substantial smoke.
d0	No flaming droplets/particles.
d1	Some flaming droplets/particles.
d2	Quite a lot of flaming droplets/particles.

The Euroclass system provides a harmonised way to classify the fire performance of materials across Europe. It is used by architects, engineers, and regulators to ensure that the materials used in buildings meet the required levels of fire safety.

Relevance of Euroclass Classifications to EWI systems 

External Wall Insulation (EWI) systems are a key component of a building’s thermal performance and energy efficiency. However, they also play a significant role in the building’s overall fire safety. This is where the Euroclass system becomes relevant.

The Euroclass system provides a standardised method of assessing the fire performance of building materials, including those used in EWI systems. It measures various aspects of fire behaviour, such as ignitability, flame spread, heat release, smoke production, and the production of flaming droplets or particles.

When selecting materials for an EWI system, it’s crucial to consider their Euroclass rating. Materials with a higher Euroclass rating (A1, A2) are non-combustible and do not contribute to fire spread, making them safer choices for EWI systems. On the other hand, materials with lower Euroclass ratings (E, F) are combustible and can contribute to fire spread, posing a potential risk.

In addition to the main Euroclass rating, the additional classifications for smoke production (s1, s2, s3) and flaming droplets/particles (d0, d1, d2) are also important. Materials that produce a lot of smoke or flaming droplets can pose additional risks in the event of a fire, hindering visibility and potentially spreading the fire further.

Therefore, understanding the Euroclass ratings of materials used in EWI systems is crucial for ensuring the fire safety of the building. It allows architects, engineers, and builders to make informed decisions about the materials they use, balancing the need for energy efficiency and thermal performance with the need for fire safety.

Mineral Wool Insulation 

Mineral wool insulation, such as Rockwool, is known for its excellent fire resistance properties. Here are some key points to consider:

Mineral wool insulation, such as Rockwool, is known for its excellent fire resistance properties. Here are some key points to consider:

• Non-Combustibility: Mineral wool insulation is non-combustible, which means it does not burn. It can withstand high temperatures without igniting, making it highly effective in fire protection.
• High Melting Point: Mineral wool has a high melting point, allowing it to maintain its structural integrity even in severe fires. While other materials may melt or collapse, mineral wool can withstand the heat and help maintain the compartmentalization of fire.
• Slow Fire Spread: The fibrous structure of mineral wool acts as a barrier against the spread of fire. It hinders the transfer of heat and flames, limiting the fire’s ability to move through the insulation and across building components.
• Low Smoke Emission: Mineral wool produces minimal smoke when exposed to fire. This is important because smoke inhalation is a significant hazard during fires. The low smoke emission of mineral wool helps to enhance the safety of occupants and provides clear evacuation routes.
• Euroclass A1 Fire Rating: Mineral wool insulation typically achieves the Euroclass A1 fire rating, which is the highest classification for fire-resistant materials according to the European Standard for reaction to fire. This classification signifies that mineral wool is non-combustible, does not contribute to fire spread, emits minimal smoke, and does not produce flaming droplets or particles.

It is always recommended to consult the technical specifications and documentation provided by insulation manufacturers, as well as relevant industry standards and regulations, for comprehensive and detailed information on the fire resistance properties of mineral wool insulation.

Mineral Wool Insulation snapshot:

Property	Detail
Combustibility	Does not ignite or burn
Melting Point	Maintains structural integrity in severe fires
Fire Spread	Hinders heat and flame transfer
Smoke Emission	Produces minimal smoke when exposed to fire
Euroclass A1 Fire Rating	Highest classification for fire-resistant materials
Wildland-Urban Interface Zones	Crucial for fire-resilient design in WUI zones
NFPA 285 Design	Helps meet fire propagation test requirements

Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) insulation

Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) insulation, while widely used for its excellent insulation properties, does not have the same level of fire resistance as mineral wool. Here are some key points to consider:

• Combustibility: EPS is a combustible material, which means it can catch fire when exposed to a heat source. It must be protected from ignition sources during storage, installation, and use.
• Melting Point: The exact melting point of EPS is not readily available, but it’s known to be lower than that of mineral wool. When exposed to high temperatures, EPS can melt and contribute to the spread of fire.
• Fire Spread: Unlike mineral wool, EPS can contribute to the spread of fire due to its combustible nature. When ignited, it can produce flaming droplets that can spread the fire to other areas.
• Smoke Emission: When EPS burns, it produces thick, black smoke, which can be hazardous in the event of a fire. Smoke inhalation is a significant risk during fires, and the heavy smoke produced by burning EPS can hinder visibility and evacuation efforts.
• Fire Rating: EPS products are typically classified under Euroclass E, according to the European Standard for reaction to fire. This classification signifies that EPS is combustible and can contribute to fire spread.
• Fire Retardants: To improve its fire performance, EPS is often treated with fire retardants. These chemicals can slow down the ignition and burning rate of EPS, but they do not make it non-combustible.

It’s important to note that these properties can vary depending on the specific type and brand of EPS insulation used, as well as the presence and type of fire retardants. Therefore, it’s always recommended to consult the technical specifications and documentation provided by insulation manufacturers, as well as relevant industry standards and regulations, for comprehensive and detailed information on the fire resistance properties of EPS insulation.

EPS Insulation snapshot

Property	Detail
Combustibility	Can ignite or burn
Melting Point	Lower than mineral wool
Fire Spread	Can contribute to fire spread
Smoke Emission	Produces thick, black smoke when burned
Fire Rating	Typically classified under Euroclass E
Fire Retardants	Often treated with fire retardants to improve fire performance

Please note that this information is based on general knowledge and may not be entirely accurate. For specific information about a particular brand or type of EPS insulation, please refer to the manufacturer’s data sheets or contact the manufacturer directly.

Extruded Polystyrene (XPS) insulation

Extruded Polystyrene (XPS) insulation, like EPS, is a widely used insulation material due to its excellent insulation properties. However, it also shares some of the fire-related concerns associated with EPS. Here are some key points to consider:

• Combustibility: XPS is also a combustible material, which means it can catch fire when exposed to a heat source. It must be protected from ignition sources during storage, installation, and use
• Melting Point: The exact melting point of XPS is not readily available, but it’s known to be lower than that of mineral wool. When exposed to high temperatures, XPS can melt and contribute to the spread of fire.
• Fire Spread: Similar to EPS, XPS can contribute to the spread of fire due to its combustible nature. When ignited, it can produce flaming droplets that can spread the fire to other areas.
• Smoke Emission: When XPS burns, it produces smoke, which can be hazardous in the event of a fire. Smoke inhalation is a significant risk during fires, and the smoke produced by burning XPS can hinder visibility and evacuation efforts.
• Fire Rating: XPS products are typically classified under Euroclass E, according to the European Standard for reaction to fire. This classification signifies that XPS is combustible and can contribute to fire spread.
• Fire Retardants: To improve its fire performance, XPS is often treated with fire retardants. These chemicals can slow down the ignition and burning rate of XPS, but they do not make it non-combustible.

It’s important to note that these properties can vary depending on the specific type and brand of XPS insulation used, as well as the presence and type of fire retardants. 

Therefore, it’s always recommended to consult the technical specifications and documentation provided by insulation manufacturers, as well as relevant industry standards and regulations, for comprehensive and detailed information on the fire resistance properties of XPS insulation

XPS Snapshot

Property	Detail
Combustibility	Can ignite or burn
Melting Point	Lower than mineral wool
Fire Spread	Can contribute to fire spread
Smoke Emission	Produces smoke when burned
Fire Rating	Typically classified under Euroclass E
Fire Retardants	Often treated with fire retardants to improve fire performance

Please note that this information is based on general knowledge and may not be entirely accurate. For specific information about a particular brand or type of XPS insulation, please refer to the manufacturer’s data sheets or contact the manufacturer directly.

Phenolic Insulation

Phenolic insulation, also known as phenolic foam, is a type of insulation material that offers excellent thermal performance and fire resistance. Here are some key points to consider:

Combustibility: Phenolic insulation is considered to be non-combustible. It has a low spread of flame and does not contribute significantly to fire load.

Melting Point: The exact melting point of phenolic insulation is not readily available, but it’s known to withstand high temperatures without melting, unlike EPS and XPS.

Fire Spread: Due to its non-combustible nature, phenolic insulation does not contribute significantly to the spread of fire.

Smoke Emission: Phenolic insulation produces a low level of smoke when exposed to fire. This can be beneficial in the event of a fire, as heavy smoke can hinder visibility and evacuation efforts.

Fire Rating: Phenolic insulation products are typically classified under Euroclass B, according to the European Standard for reaction to fire. This classification signifies that phenolic insulation has a high level of fire resistance.

Fire Retardants: Phenolic insulation inherently has good fire performance and does not typically require additional treatment with fire retardants

Phenolic Facts:

Property	Detail
Combustibility	Non-combustible
Melting Point	High, does not melt easily
Fire Spread	Does not contribute significantly to fire spread
Smoke Emission	Produces low level of smoke when burned
Fire Rating	Typically classified under Euroclass B
Fire Retardants	Not typically required

Please note that this information is based on general knowledge and may not be entirely accurate. For specific information about a particular brand or type of phenolic insulation, please refer to the manufacturer’s data sheets or contact the manufacturer directly.

Aerogel insulation

Aerogel insulation, often referred to as the “world’s best insulating solid material,” is a unique material that offers superior thermal performance and fire resistance. Here are some key points to consider:

• Combustibility: Aerogel is generally considered non-combustible. It does not contribute significantly to fire load.
• Melting Point: The exact melting point of aerogel is not readily available, but it’s known to withstand high temperatures without melting.
• Fire Spread: Due to its non-combustible nature, aerogel does not contribute significantly to the spread of fire.
• Smoke Emission: Information on the smoke emission of aerogel when exposed to fire is not readily available. However, given its non-combustible nature, it’s likely that it produces a low level of smoke.
• Fire Rating: The fire rating of aerogel products can vary, but due to its non-combustible nature, it’s likely to have a high level of fire resistance.
• Fire Retardants: Aerogel inherently has good fire performance and does not typically require additional treatment with fire retardants

Aerogel Facts:

Property	Detail
Combustibility	Non-combustible
Melting Point	High, does not melt easily
Fire Spread	Does not contribute significantly to fire spread
Smoke Emission	Likely low, but specific information not available
Fire Rating	Likely high, but specific information not available
Fire Retardants	Not typically required

Please note that this information is based on general knowledge and may not be entirely accurate. For specific information about a particular brand or type of aerogel insulation, please refer to the manufacturer’s data sheets or contact the manufacturer directly.

Aerogel is a versatile and high-performing material with a wide range of applications, including thermal management for electric vehicles, insulating plasters for building envelopes and facades, insulation boards for internal insulating finishing systems, and more. It is also used as a high-performance additive to coatings, including insulative coating for electric vehicle applications. Its unique properties, such as its high surface area and superhydrophobicity, enable it to be used in applications such as organics filtration and sequestration, filled polymer reinforcement, sebum absorption in personal care products, thixotropic rheology modification and more

Future Developments And Advancements

Looking ahead, there are several advancements being made in developing more effective materials for use in constructing buildings with higher levels of fire-resistance. For instance, researchers are exploring safer alternatives to commonly used flammable materials like polystyrene foam which has increasingly come under scrutiny due to its combustibility properties

Building codes and regulations will also continue to evolve to meet changing safety requirements and standards, necessitating a need for greater creativity in designing systems that can be fire-resistant while still ensuring high-efficiency performance. Equally, the rise of smart buildings and digital technologies offers exciting opportunities for monitoring, modifying, and optimising energy consumption while keeping building safety at the forefront

With these technological advancements, external wall insulation will continue to play an integral role in enhancing building energy efficiency while reducing carbon emissions. Fire-resistant external wall insulation is essential for promoting building safety.

Through this article’s examination of different types of EWI systems and techniques used in enhancing their fire resistance capabilities, readers can gain insights into what is necessary for maintaining safe buildings. The future looks bright as more innovations come our way aimed at ensuring greater levels of resilience in our built environment.