Chars produced from cellulose under various conditions of thermal decomposition

An experimental study has been performed to identify the controlling conditions when self-generating flames move through and transform flame-retardant treated and untreated cotton fabrics. The approach has been to compare the chars formed by flames with those produced by induced (nonflame) thermal decomposition under known conditions of temperature and environment. Char comparisons were made mainly through internal reflection infrared spectroscopy. Considerable variations were found among chars formed by flames moving in different directions in space, corresponding to differences in the maximum temperatures and degree of contact with oxygen experienced by the materials during burning.