Physics-Based Modeling for WUI Fire-Spread Simplified Model Algorithm for Ignition of Structures by Burning Vegetation

Published

October 1, 2004

Author(s)

D D. Evans, Ronald G. Rehm, Elisa S. Baker

Abstract

A simple physics-based mathematical algorithm is described for estimating the separation distances necessary to prevent radiative ignition of structures by burning vegetation. The algorithm is directed at use in applications such as the USDA Forest Service Ecosmart software suite of tools. The algorithm represents a first step in quantifying the fire spread phenomena involving both structures and vegetation typical of wildland-urban interface (WUI) areas and residential housing communities. Results of initial experiments to characterize the heat release rate (HRR), flame height, and duration of burning for individual Douglas-fir trees are provided. In addition, research needs to better understand and quantify wildland-urban and residential community fires are discussed.

Citation

NIST Interagency/Internal Report (NISTIR) - 7179

Report Number

7179

NIST Pub Series

NIST Interagency/Internal Report (NISTIR)

Pub Type

NIST Pubs

Download Paper

Local Download

Keywords

Ecosmart, fires, heat release rate, mathematical models of fire, radiative ignition, structures and vegetation, wildland-urban interface

Citation

Evans, D. , Rehm, R. and Baker, E. (2004), Physics-Based Modeling for WUI Fire-Spread Simplified Model Algorithm for Ignition of Structures by Burning Vegetation, NIST Interagency/Internal Report (NISTIR), National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD, [online], https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=861338 (Accessed October 13, 2025)