What happens to plywood under fire conditions?

Under fire conditions, plywood is highly susceptible to heat and flames. As the temperature rises, the adhesives used in the layers of plywood begin to break down. This process can lead to the layers of the plywood separating from one another, a phenomenon known as delamination. The structural integrity of the plywood is compromised due to this separation, making it less effective as a building material under fire conditions. Therefore, delamination is a critical concern for fire safety, as it can significantly affect the performance of plywood in a fire, rendering it unable to support loads or provide necessary fire resistance.

While plywood may ignite under certain conditions, it is the delamination that is a direct consequence of exposure to fire, making it a key focus in fire inspections and safety assessments.