Beclaydung

Clay boards as fire protection system for timber constructions

The research project “Beclaydung” focuses on the use of clay boards as fire-protection system for timber construction. Currently, gypsum fibre and gypsum plasterboards are the most widely used materials for this purpose. However, due to Germany’s planned phase-out of coal combustion and the resulting decline in technical REA-gypsum, there is a growing need to diversify available materials. Clay boards could offer a promising alternative in specific application areas.

The updated Muster-Holzbaurichtlinie 2024 allows for the use of non-combustible clay boards as effective fire protection systems. A key performance parameter in this context is the time of charring of the timber located behind the lining. This indicator will be thoroughly investigated for currently available clay boards. The project includes both small- and large-scale fire tests. The results will be compiled into a practical and clearly structured construction catalogue, intended to support architects and engineers in the design process.