Study foam combustion performance

The specific relationship observed is that the oxygen index increases as density rises, meaning that porous materials with a higher degree of densification are less likely to ignite. The time it takes for combustion to occur remains largely unaffected by the level of density, which helps explain why multi-porous materials exhibit long-lasting and stable combustion characteristics. The extent of this relationship is moderate; as the density increases, both the range of combustion phenomena and the amount of mass loss decrease. Additionally, the rate of combustion appears to slow down more noticeably, indicating that flames spread more quickly through multi-porous materials with lower density. The effect of varying density on the performance of foam body combustion is particularly significant in materials like polyurethane foam, which are classified as low-density porous substances. These materials contain numerous small, fibrous cells that increase the surface area in contact with air, making them more susceptible to combustion. However, due to their lower porosity, they tend to burn more easily. Therefore, when formulating flame-retardant multi-porous materials, it's crucial to account for the impact of densification. If the degree of densification reduces the material’s flame resistance, additional flame retardants must be added to compensate. Research conducted by Zhu Guoqiang and colleagues confirmed that the level of densification significantly affects the combustion behavior of multi-porous materials. Understanding this relationship is essential for optimizing the design and performance of such materials in fire safety applications. By adjusting the density and incorporating appropriate flame-retardant additives, engineers can enhance the fire resistance of these materials while maintaining their structural and functional properties. This knowledge plays a vital role in developing safer and more efficient porous materials for various industrial and consumer uses.