little-known facts about silicate bricks and fires

Abstract

The article presents a brief historical background about the epistemology of silicate brick. Well-known facts about silicate brick are given: the technological scheme of manufacture, modern grades for strength and frost resistance, information about thermal conductivity, classification by species, size and purpose. Advantages are considered, among which are noted: relatively low cost, environmental friendliness, compatibility with masonry mortars, aesthetics, wide color gamut, good geometric parameters, high strength characteristics, good soundproof ability, relatively high frost resistance, ease of processing. Disadvantages are given, among which are noted: high thermal conductivity, high water absorption, brittleness, and instability to acidic and alkaline aggressive environments. Particular attention is given to the consideration of the behavior of silicate brick and masonry from it in a fire. References to works devoted to this problem are given. The research of high temperature effects on the brickwork of the silicate bricks in the fire was held. A model for the possible collapse of brickwork as a re-sult of reducing its bearing ability due to fire was designed. The conclusion is drawn about the need for technical diagnostics of the structures of buildings made of silicate brick exposed to fire, as well as the special tactics of extinguishing fires in such buildings.