The material
Investigating how gypsum boards change under heat, and how board type and composition influence the observations.
Gypsum board · Fire investigation
What can gypsum board tell us about a fire?
Exploring calcination depth and its potential to inform the examination of fire-damaged materials.
Explore the research
Materials. Measurement. Interpretation.Discover the measurement approach
01Research
From material changes
to a clearer understanding.
CalciTrace is a research project focused on gypsum board exposed to fire. It connects the study of materials with the development of a depth measurement method and a handheld instrument.
The measurement
Exploring how probe penetration depth can be measured and recorded consistently across a damaged surface.
The interpretation
Examining what a pattern of readings can contribute when considered alongside other fire-scene evidence.
02Measurement method
A documented approach
to depth measurement.
A small probe is pressed into the fire-damaged gypsum board. Its penetration depth is recorded at documented points to build a picture of the material response across the surface.
Document the surface
Record the condition of the board and establish a measurement grid with identifiable positions.
Measure and record
Take depth readings with the instrument and retain their positions for comparison and review.
Interpret in context
Consider the readings alongside the board type, moisture, fire exposure and other observations from the scene.
03Case study
An experimental office fire
Connecting measurements
with a documented scene.
A furnished office lined with gypsum board provided a setting for applying the measurement method after a fire. The scene was documented and measurement positions were marked on the exposed wall.
Measurement grid30 cm spacing
Used in this particular case study.
The recorded depths were considered together with the documented fire location and the damage to the room. This example illustrates the workflow; it does not establish a universal relationship between maximum depth and the fire's origin.
04About & contact
Let's discuss
the research.
Questions about the measurement approach, experimental observations or a possible research collaboration are welcome.
Jakub Baca
Fire investigator & doctoral researcher
CalciTrace research project