Ships and Offshore Structures, 2025, Online

Title: Assessing the probability of secondary fires in ship compartment using the limited oxygen index

Author(s): Seung-Yul Lee, Deok-Yeong Kim, Jeong Hwan Kim & Jung Kwan Seo

Abstract:

Ship compartments contain flammable materials, posing fire hazards under various operating conditions. Depending on ignition sources and primary fire characteristics, these materials may trigger secondary fires, potentially leading to total vessel loss. This study introduces a method to assess secondary fire risks using the limiting oxygen index (LOI), which defines the minimum oxygen concentration required for sustained combustion. A hangar space with multiple flammable materials was examined as a representative ship compartment. The LOI of all materials present was experimentally measured. Using LOI data, time-dependent oxygen concentration, and temperature from the Fire Dynamics Simulator, the probability of secondary fire occurrence was evaluated following an initial fire caused by fuel leakage. The findings revealed that secondary fires were more likely in areas with restricted air circulation and in proximity to ignition sources. This assessment method provides valuable insights into fire risk prediction in ship compartments and aids in fire suppression strategies.