PYROLYSIS AND HEAT RELEASE OF INORGANIC FLAME RETARDANTS

Abstract

A study on the fire-propagation and pyrolysis of Malaysian Umbers, kempas (Koompassia malaccensis), keruing (Dipterocarpus baudii) and damar minyak (Agathis bomeensis) treated with monoammonium phosphate and borax was conducted. A chemical loading required for fire retardancy was achieved in all the three species by pressure impregnation process. The fire-propagation test was conducted based on B.S. 476, Part 6:1968. Both chemicals at a retention level of 40 - 50 kg m^-3 improved the fire-propagation properties of the three timbers. The propagation index values of the treated timbers were comparable to those for Class 1 surface spread of flame rating. The weight loss after fire-propagation test of the timbers treated with monoammonium phosphate was lower than the borax-treated timbers. Presence of resinous material in keruing affected the fire-propagation performance of monoammoium phosphate but not of borax. Monoammonium phosphate and borax behaved differently at various temperature ranges. Monoammonium phosphate increased volatiles liberation at temperature below 300°C.