Experimental characterization and luminance simulation of light propagation in smoke-filled environments

Abstract

Smoke generated during a fire modifies light propagation through absorption and scattering processes caused by suspended particles, reducing visibility in indoor environments. The optical characterization of these aerosols is relevant for analyzing how different smoke conditions affect light distribution and visual perception in spaces equipped with emergency lighting systems. This work presents an experimental methodology to study the interaction between light and smoke under controlled laboratory conditions. First, the spectral extinction coefficient is experimentally determined for different combustion materials through light transmittance measurements. Subsequently, the angular distribution of scattered light is analyzed. The experimentally obtained optical parameters are then incorporated into a lighting simulation tool intended for analyzing the spatial luminance distribution in scenarios with defined optical properties. The results reveal differences in the spectral and angular behavior of smoke generated by different materials, highlighting the influence of aerosol properties on light propagation. This study is limited to the experimental conditions considered and does not aim to establish a universal model for the optical behavior of fire smoke. Nevertheless, the proposed methodology provides a useful framework for combining experimental optical characterization and lighting simulation in smoke-filled environments.