FireDOC Search

Author
Finlayson, E. U.
Title
Theoretical Predictions of Transient Temperature Profiles in Nongray Semitransparent Plane Layers With Experimental Verification.
Coporate
Maryland Univ., College Park
Sponsor
National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD
Report
Thesis
1990
94 p.
Contract
NIST-GRANT-70NAHB5H0529
Keywords
temperature profiles | equations | fire investigations | heat transfer
Abstract
Glasses and plastics, common components of modern construction, are often included in fire investigations. The relatively well understoon chemical degradation mechanism of these materials increases their usefulness in experimental research. Their optical behavior is also known. Polymers are capable of selectively absorbing thermal radiation throughout their depth. Materials that exhibit these absorption characteristics are classified as semitransparent. Knowledge of the thermal history of such solids will give insight into the process of degradation prior to ignition.