The relationship between thermal degradation and flammability

The relationship between flammability and thermal degradation is the consequence of the burning cycle needed to sustain fire. Thermal degradation behaviour of polymers is discussed in relation to generation of fuel and other products, including flame quenchers, and the production of char. The thermal degradation behaviour of the main classes of fire retardant is considered and illustrated by examples of the ways in which specific fire retardants exert their effect on a particular polymer.