Primary goal

Only a few timber species are BAL 29 rated for exterior use in fire prone areas while many others can be used in BAL19 exposures on the basis of their density. The development of better data on a wider range of Australian hardwoods could result in the inclusion of more species in the BAL 29 category.

Previous studies of a limited range of Far North Queensland timber species indicated that at least one, Cooktown ironwood, met the BAL29 criteria but the data package was limited.

We propose a broader evaluation of the denser hardwoods for their fire behaviour as well as further studies to characterise other timber aspects such as anatomical features and extractives content that might be combined to predict fire behaviour. The results could provide opportunities for use of other species to meet the exterior exposure needs in bushfire prone areas.

Key benefits

Including additional Australian hardwoods in the BAL 29 category would open markets for other species. The data will also support changes in requirements for BAL classifications.

Progress

This project commenced in 2022 and will conclude in 2026.

Sustainable Development Goals

This project works towards these UN Sustainable Development Goals:

• SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
• SDG 15: Life on Land