Buildings wrapped in solid gasoline by Reuters

Reuters investigates the persistent use of flammable cladding materials in high-rise buildings, including those used on Grenfell Tower in London.

The piece focuses on a devastating fire that occurred on February 22, 2024, in Valencia, Spain, where flammable cladding contributed to the rapid spread of the blaze, resulting in ten fatalities.

Through detailed information graphics and expert analyses, the article illustrates how materials like Aluminium Composite Material (ACM), which consists of aluminum sheets bonded to a polyethylene core, can act as "solid gasoline," significantly increasing fire risks.

The visuals explain the composition of these cladding materials, the mechanics of fire spread in ventilated facades, and highlight other global incidents where similar materials have led to catastrophic fires.

This comprehensive visual exploration underscores the ongoing dangers associated with flammable cladding and the critical need for stricter building safety regulations.