Experimental Investigation on the Nonlinearity Effect on Large-Scale Fires: Propagation Characteristics and Observations
| International Journal of Civil Engineering |
| © 2026 by SSRG - IJCE Journal |
| Volume 13 Issue 1 |
| Year of Publication : 2026 |
| Authors : Vinayak Malhotra, Thunaipragasam Selvakumaran |
10.14445/23488352/IJCE-V13I1P110
How to Cite?
Vinayak Malhotra, Thunaipragasam Selvakumaran, "Experimental Investigation on the Nonlinearity Effect on Large-Scale Fires: Propagation Characteristics and Observations," SSRG International Journal of Civil Engineering, vol. 13, no. 1, pp. 121-131, 2026. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23488352/IJCE-V13I1P110
Abstract:
Fire does not spread evenly. Natural resources, vital infrastructure, systems, and priceless human lives have all been irreparably lost as a result of the widespread uncertainty around large-scale fires. To address this critical issue, considerable research initiatives are steered every year aimed at preventing and alleviating such devastating occurrences to create novel tactics, advanced technology, and effective processes to proactively mitigate the danger of large-scale fires, thereby protecting lives and preserving valuable assets from significant damage. The present work aims to examine the non-linear characteristics of fire propagation. A setup was constructed to evaluate various non-linear layouts at many orientations. Various non-linear configurations for each direction were examined, and the pattern of fire propagation was recorded to collect critical information about fire propagation dynamics, Flame Spread Rate (FSR), and associated energy transfer. To gain true replication, experiments were conducted on dynamic models, Linear Time-Invariant (LTI), Linear Time-Variant (LTV), and the effect of spatial nonlinearity was studied on non-linear dynamic models, viz., Non-Linear Time-Invariant (NLTI) and Non-Linear Time Variant (NLTV), to determine spreading fire behavior and features. The data had been compared with the outcomes of an alternative linear configuration. Results largely state that the presence of nonlinearity significantly alters the thermal energy interaction between the pilot fuel and an array of external energy sources. It is reflected in the measurement of the spread rate. The study offers valuable insights into the complex mechanisms of fire spread, contributing to the enhancement of fire safety knowledge and improving our capacity to manage fire-related dangers. These findings may assist in the development of methods for forecasting and mitigating the harm caused by uncontrolled fires, which include wildfires, fires in aircraft, buildings, rockets, etc.
Keywords:
Fire Spread Rate (FSR), External energy sources, Energy Transfer, Nonlinearity, Surface orientation.
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