Module 4: Fireproof & Acoustic Plastering
This module covers specialized plastering systems designed to enhance fire resistance and soundproofing in buildings, crucial for modern construction and safety compliance.
1. Vermiculite and Gypsum-Based Fireproof Plaster
These lightweight, insulating plasters provide passive fire protection to structural elements.
Vermiculite Plaster
Composition:
Vermiculite (expanded mineral aggregate) mixed with cement or gypsum.
Lightweight and highly insulating.
Applications:
Steel beam encapsulation (prevents rapid heat transfer).
Fire-rated partitions and ceilings.
Advantages:
Expands under heat, forming a protective char layer.
Easy to apply by hand or spray.
Application Method:
Substrate must be clean and primed.
Applied in layers (typically 15-25mm thickness).
Finished with a trowel or left rough for better adhesion of topcoats.
Gypsum-Based Fireproof Plaster
Composition:
Gypsum with glass fibers or perlite for added strength.
Applications:
Fire-rated drywall systems.
Residential and commercial fire barriers.
Key Features:
Non-combustible; releases water vapor under heat to slow fire spread.
Smooth finish suitable for decorative coatings.
2. Acoustic Plasterboard Installation
Soundproofing plasterboards reduce noise transmission between rooms and floors.
Types of Acoustic Plasterboard:
Laminated Boards: Multiple layers of gypsum with sound-damping polymers.
High-Density Boards: Thicker and denser than standard plasterboard.
Resilient Bar Systems: Metal channels decouple boards from studs to reduce vibration.
Installation Best Practices:
Sealing Edges: Use acoustic sealant to prevent flanking noise.
Double-Layering: Stagger joints and add mass for better sound insulation.
Green Glue: Apply viscoelastic compound between layers for damping.
Performance Metrics:
STC (Sound Transmission Class) ratings (e.g., STC 50+ for office partitions).
NRC (Noise Reduction Coefficient) for echo control.
3. Spray-Applied Fireproof Coatings
Used for structural steel, concrete, and ductwork to meet fire resistance ratings.
Types of Coatings:
Cementitious Sprays: Mixture of cement, fibers, and binders (e.g., Monokote).
Intumescent Paints: Swell under heat to form an insulating char.
Application Process:
Surface must be grit-blasted and primed for steel.
Sprayed to specified thickness (measured in millimeters for fire rating).
Finished smooth or textured depending on exposure.
Advantages:
Fast application for large areas.
Can be left exposed or coated with decorative finishes.
Fire Ratings:
Typically 30-120 minutes of fire resistance (tested to BS/EN standards).
Summary
This module provides critical knowledge for:
Selecting and applying fireproof plasters (vermiculite/gypsum) for structural protection.
Installing acoustic plasterboard systems to meet sound insulation requirements.
Using spray-applied coatings for steel and concrete fireproofing.
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