Partial-g Fire Detection

Early detection of a developing fire is critical for ensuring that a fire does not result in crew death or injury. A comprehensive lunar fire detection strategy involves selection of the most effective detection technology (e.g., ionization, photometric, or a combination of multiple sensors), detector placement (e.g., behind returns or on ceilings), and appropriate alarm thresholds to optimize early fire detection. In addition, false alarms due to lofted cabin dust challenge reliable fire detection on the ISS and will likely pose a greater problem with the addition of Lunar dust as a source of nuisance cabin aerosol. Ongoing experimental work will characterize smoke signatures (gas and particle compositions and concentrations) generated during potential early fire scenarios, evaluate optimal times to alarm, and identify potential solutions to false nuisance alarms from cabin dust.

Lunar and Martian habitats will undoubtedly have forced convection for ventilation and dust control. Based on ISS designs and requirements for dust control, it is logical that the diffusers for this flow will be near the ceiling. On the Moon or Mars, a fire will form a buoyant plume which will rise to the ceiling although slower than on Earth. A dust removal ventilation system would most likely be located near the floor to remove the dust as it settles. The interaction between these two systems could significantly delay fire detection. Of course, fire detectors near the floor would be prone to nuisance alarms from dust but with ventilation, smoke particulate may not reach the ceiling. The purpose of this work is to model this phenomenon to determine the optimal location for fire detectors in Lunar and Martian applications. This will inform both NASA and contractor personnel who are involved with designing and verifying Lunar and Martian landers and habitats.

Based on this work, future surface vehicles and habitats can design fire detection and dust mitigation strategies that work together to effectively perform their functions. Specifically, the location of fire/smoke detectors to provide effective fire detection can be identified.

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