This service provides full-scale Reaction to Fire Classification of construction products using the Single Burning Item (SBI) Test, as defined in EN 13823:2020+A1:2022. The SBI test is the primary method for determining the Euroclass fire rating of construction materials and systems intended for use as wall or ceiling linings in buildings across Europe.
The SBI test assesses the fire behavior of products mounted in a corner configuration, simulating a realistic room fire scenario where two wall segments meet. It evaluates:
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Flame spread
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Heat release rate (HRR)
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Smoke production
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Falling flaming droplets or particles
The test specimen is composed of two parts:
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A long wing: 1000 mm wide × 1500 mm high × 100–150 mm thick
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A short wing: 495 mm wide × 1500 mm high × 100–150 mm thick
Together, they form a 90° corner installation around a propane burner (30.7 ± 2 kW), which exposes the materials to 20 minutes of standardized fire conditions. The room is equipped with optical detectors and airflow sensors to capture data on smoke production, heat flux, and other key variables.
At NTUA, the SBI test is performed in a certified, ISO/IEC 17025-accredited fire testing facility, and the tested sample is treated as a complete wall system, including:
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Base material (e.g., insulation board, gypsum, cement)
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Finishes (e.g., render, coating, paint)
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Fixings and support structures (where applicable)
This approach reflects real installation conditions and ensures the result accurately represents system-level performance—not just that of isolated components.
Upon completion, products receive a Euroclass classification (A2, B, C, D, or E), often accompanied by sub-indices for:
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Smoke production: s1, s2, s3
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Flaming droplets: d0, d1, d2
This classification is critical for CE marking, building code compliance, and public or commercial tenders.
