Extended Abstract (912K)1E.4
Seasonal changes in selected combustion characteristics of ornamental vegetation
David R. Weise, USDA Forest Service, Riverside, CA; and R. H. White, S. Frommer, F. C. Beall, and M. Etlinger
Flammability of living vegetation is influenced by a variety of factors including moisture content, physical structure and chemical composition. The flammability of ornamental vegetation is of interest to homeowners seeking to make their homes “fire-safe”. The relative importance of the factors influencing flammability is unknown. We measured the peak heat release rate, mass loss rate, time to ignition, and effective heat of combustion of 100 mm x 100 mm samples of foliage and small branches using a cone calorimeter. Green and oven-dried samples of 10 species were collected and tested seasonally for a period of 1 year. Similar measurements were made on whole shrubs in a large combustion facility. Results of these tests will be presented.
Session 1E, Fire Behavior Applications (TRACK V)
Wednesday, 19 November 2003, 1:30 PM-5:30 PM
Previous paper Next paper
Recorded presentation