DOST to boost efforts towards fire-resistant construction

The Department of Science and Technology pushed for more fire-safe construction efforts following the recent Hong Kong residential fires.

In a press release issued Friday, the Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI) said they had been conducting studies to truly determine the fire resilience of bamboo, which had been used in the construction of the razed-down buildings in Hong Kong.

DOST-FPRDI Director and bamboo expert, Dr. Rico Cabangon concluded that bamboo was highly combustible, despite being more sustainable and environmentally-friendly than other materials.

“With proper testing, drying, treatment, and the use of fire-safety technologies, the risk of ignition and flame spread can be significantly reduced,” Cabangon said.

He shared that the DOST-FPRDI is exploring more ways to develop fire-retardant technologies using less toxic nano-sized montmorillonite clay, which can slow ignition and minimize the spread of fire in wood and bamboo.

 They are also in the process of using kauayan-tinik for a bamboo-based cellulose nanofiber aerogel for construction insulation, and utilizing a Fire Testing Laboratory to evaluate fire-resistant material.

“We understand the concerns people have about bamboo and fire safety, which is why we have been taking proactive steps to address them… Through expanding our testing services and research, we aim to ensure that bamboo remains a credible material for building and construction,” Cabangon said.

 “Hazards cannot always be predicted, they can be mitigated through research and appropriate technology,” added DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr.

 The DOST said their long-term goal is to provide support for the construction industry and the general piublic regareing the safer use of bamboo and other forestry products. — Jiselle Anne C. Casucian/RSJ, GMA Integrated News