Which materials are typically used for passive fire protection?

The use of fire-resistant drywall and fireproof insulation as materials for passive fire protection is well-founded in fire safety practices. Passive fire protection is designed to contain fires or slow their spread, providing critical time for occupants to evacuate and for firefighters to respond.

Fire-resistant drywall is specifically engineered to withstand high temperatures and prevent the passage of flames and heat, often incorporating materials that provide additional fire resistance compared to standard drywall. Similarly, fireproof insulation enhances passive protection by insulating walls and ceilings, helping maintain structural integrity during a fire situation. These materials are integral components of fire-rated assemblies, which are required by building codes to ensure that different areas of a building have adequate fire barriers.

In contrast, the other materials listed do not fulfill the primary functions of passive fire protection. For example, while wood can be treated for fire resistance, it is still generally classified as a combustible material. Metal, while fire-resistant, often does not contribute to containment in the same way that the other choices do. Concrete and glass can provide some level of fire resistance and containment, but they are not typically recognized as primary passive fire protection materials in the same context. Lastly, plastic and fabric are generally not suitable for passive fire protection, as they can easily ignite and contribute to