Purpose
This research aimed to understand how preservative-treated plantation timber performed in fencing and sleeper markets located in bushfire-prone areas. It aimed to assess market potential and fire resilience to support safer and more sustainable timber use.
Summary
This project investigated the fire performance of treated timber fences and garden sleeper walls in bushfire-prone areas. It found that these structures were not major contributors to bushfire losses unless mulch or debris accumulated at their base, which significantly increased fire risk. Experimental tests showed that maintaining a minimum 900–1000 mm separation from buildings reduced heat exposure. The study recommended voluntary guidelines over regulatory bans. Cone calorimeter tests successfully screened copper-based treatments for smouldering risks, suggesting future research into fire-retardant alternatives. Large-scale tests revealed structural failures due to prolonged smouldering, highlighting the need for safe separation distances. Moisture content and prewetting were shown to delay ignition, indicating potential firefighting strategies.
Benefits to the Forest and Wood Products Industry
- The industry gains clearer guidelines for using treated plantation timber in bushfire-prone areas, improving safety and compliance.
- Suppliers expand market opportunities by promoting fire-resilient timber products to meet growing demand in high-risk regions.
- Manufacturers improve product development by understanding which timber treatments perform best under bushfire conditions.
- Stakeholders strengthen collaboration through better communication between producers, regulators, and consumers, leading to more consistent standards.
Acknowledgement
This work was supported by funding provided to Forest and Wood Products Australia (FWPA) to administer the National Institute for Forest Products Innovation program (NIFPI).
Funding for the program was provided by the Australian Government, the Victorian Government and Australian forest and wood products industry.
