Fire Resistance of Tunnel Surfaces (UTI-UTC 42)

This project investigates the fire resistance performance of various protective coatings and materials applied to tunnel surfaces, with the objective of improving the structural integrity and safety of tunnels during fire events. Focusing on intumescent paints, sprayed fire-resistant materials (SFRM), and fire-resistant tiles, the study evaluates these treatments through a series of standardized fire tests on concrete panels. The research assesses key parameters such as thermal insulation, spalling behavior, and residual structural strength under high temperatures. Data collected from full-scale testing inform the development of predictive models for tunnel liner performance in fire scenarios. The findings contribute to enhanced design guidelines for fire protection in underground infrastructure, supporting safer tunnel operation and more resilient transportation networks.

Language

• English

Project

• Status: Completed
• Funding: $236,794.00
• Contract Numbers:

  69A3551747118

• Sponsor Organizations:

  University Transportation Center for Underground Transportation Infrastructure

  Colorado School of Mines
  Golden, CO  United States  80401

  Office of the Assistant Secretary for Research and Technology

  University Transportation Centers Program
  Department of Transportation
  Washington, DC  United States  20590
• Managing Organizations:

  Colorado School of Mines

  1500 Illinois St
  Golden, CO  United States  80401

  Lehigh University

  ATLSS Engineering Research Center
  IMBT Laboratory
  Bethlehem, PA  United States  18015-4729
• Performing Organizations:

  Lehigh University

  ATLSS Engineering Research Center
  IMBT Laboratory
  Bethlehem, PA  United States  18015-4729
• Principal Investigators:

  Naito , Clay

  Quiel , Spencer

• Start Date: 20200101
• Expected Completion Date: 20230430
• Actual Completion Date: 20230501
• USDOT Program: University Transportation Centers

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Fire resistance; Fire resistant coatings; Heat insulating materials; Predictive models; Spalling; Tunnel lining; Tunnels
• Subject Areas: Bridges and other structures; Highways; Maintenance and Preservation;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01954446
• Record Type: Research project
• Source Agency: University Transportation Center for Underground Transportation Infrastructure
• Contract Numbers: 69A3551747118
• Files: UTC, RIP
• Created Date: May 7 2025 4:05PM