New Technologies and Materials for Enhanced Damage and Fire Tolerance of Naval Vessels

Emerging technologies for fire and damage detection, abatement and suppression on board naval vessels are reviewed. These include point and volume fire and damage sensors and systems, smoke control (ejection) systems, smart valves, water mist and gaseous agent fire suppression systems, and aerosol fire extinguishing agents. Technology readiness levels (TRL) of these technologies are assigned based on the criteria developed by the United States Department of Defence. Several approaches to enhancing the fire and flammability properties of non-metallic (polymeric) materials used on naval vessels are also reviewed. The approaches include the selection of polymeric materials with inherent fire resistance, the use of flame retardants additives including nanoparticles, the incorporation of molecules into the polymer backbone that have flame retardant properties, and the use of intumescent coatings to protect the underlying substrate. Standards and test methods that are used to evaluate the fire performance of nonmetallic materials are discussed. Abstract and Summary are in English and French.