An Experimental Analysis of Thatched-Roof Materials to Assess Fire Risk in Historical Villages

Research reveals that silver grass (Miscanthus sinensis var. purpurascens) poses a higher fire risk compared to straw (Oryza sativa), with faster ignition and greater heat release, critical for fire safety in UNESCO-listed historical villages like Korea's Hahoe and Yangdong or Japan's Shirakawa-go. Using cone calorimetry (ISO 5660-1) and flammability testing, the study quantified combustion characteristics—including Time to Ignition (TTI), Heat Release Rate (HRR), and Total Heat Release (THR)—to assess hazard potential. Findings indicate that fires in straw-roofed houses can spread within a 5.68-meter radius, underscoring structural vulnerabilities. This data-driven approach provides actionable insights for risk mitigation in heritage conservation, balancing preservation with fire safety protocols.

Kim, D.-H., & Lee, J.-H. (2015). An Experimental Analysis of Thatched-Roof Materials to Assess Fire Risk in Historical Villages. Journal of Korean Society of Hazard Mitigation, 15(5), 117–122. https://doi.org/10.9798/kosham.2015.15.5.117