What happens to the stack effect in high-rise buildings?

The stack effect, also known as the chimney effect, occurs in high-rise buildings due to temperature differences between the inside and outside air. As warm air rises within the building, it creates an upward movement that can enhance the flow of smoke and other gases during a fire. This phenomenon is a critical factor in fire safety considerations, as it can lead to an increased movement of smoke both upwards and downwards depending on the temperature differentials.

When a fire generates heat, the warm air rises, creating lower pressure at lower levels of the building. This pressure difference can pull smoke down from higher floors or push it outward to adjacent areas, which is particularly dangerous in the event of a fire where smoke can quickly spread and reduce visibility or create toxic conditions for occupants. Understanding the stack effect is essential for effective smoke control strategies during fire events in high-rise buildings, as it directly impacts how smoke spreads and influences evacuation procedures and fire response tactics.