NSWAFI Education Night - Depth Of Calcination In Gypsum Plasterboards During Fire Exposure

TO ALL MEMBERS AND GUESTS OF NSWAFI

You are invited to attend an Education Night run by the NSW Association of Fire Investigators Inc. on the subject of:

Depth Of Calcination In Gypsum Plasterboards During Fire Exposure

This presentation explores methods for predicting the depth of calcination in gypsum plasterboards during fire exposure. Researchers utilised both experimental measurements and numerical modelling to create accurate correlations between heat flux and material degradation.

The study highlighted the chemical dehydration process that occurs when gypsum is heated, causing it to become brittle and change colour. Furthermore, the project investigated the use of digital image processing and artificial intelligence to identify lines of demarcation on fire-damaged walls. These advanced AI-driven edge detection methods significantly outperformed traditional algorithms, offering a more precise tool for fire investigators to analyse burn patterns. This multifaceted approach aims to improve the scientific accuracy of fire scene reconstruction and forensic analysis.

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Dr Gregory E. Gorbett is a full-time Professor at Eastern Kentucky University, teaching in the Fire Protection and Safety Engineering Technology Program. Dr Gorbett is also a professional Fire and Explosion Analyst with Fire Dynamics Analysts. He holds National Board Certification as a CFEI, IAAI-CFI, and CFPS

Dr Gorbett holds two BS degrees: (1) Forensic Science and (2) Fire Science. He also holds two MS degrees: (1) Executive Fire Service Leadership and (2) Fire Protection Engineering. He also has a PhD in Fire Protection Engineering. He is a member of NFPA 1033, OSAC, and the CFI certification committee of IAAI.

WHEN:                      Thursday, 16 April 2026               TIME: 19:00 hours AEDT

RSVP:                        Wednesday, 15 April 2026

This presentation will be conducted live over Microsoft Teams. Please complete the online booking form on the NSWAFI website. The Teams Meeting details will be provided with your booking confirmation email.

REMEMBER: You do not need to be a Fire Investigator to attend these evenings.

If you are not a member of the NSWAFI, the cost to attend this education night is $10, payable through the website. ANZFSS, NZAFI, QAFI and VAFI financial members can book for free.