Reaction of materials to fire is how a material behaves when exposed to fire or high temperatures. It determines its ability to ignite, spread flame and emit smoke and gases.
This parameter is essential for assessing the fire safety of buildings. The reaction to fire assesses whether a material contributes to the development of a fire or limits its spread. It has important in the selection of finishing and construction materials in buildings. In practice, materials used in wall cladding, ceilings and insulation are particularly analysed.
The reaction to fire performance of materials is determined according to the fire classification used in European standards. Classes are denoted by symbols A to F, where class A materials are considered non-combustible. Appropriate assessment of reaction to fire helps to improve the fire safety of a building, so that designers can reduce the risk of rapid fire development in rooms and escape routes. The classification system also takes into account the amount of smoke released and the possibility of flaming droplets or particles.
