The fire-retarding effect of inorganic phosphorus compounds on the combustion of cellulosic materials

The pyrolysis and combustion of cellulosic substances treated with MAP and DAP have been studied using thermal analysis, flame spread tests and a specifically designed apparatus for smoldering combustion test. The samples used were: cotton string, cotton fabric and pure cellulose powder. Diammonium Phosphate (DAP) and Monoammonium Phosphate (MAP) can reduce the combustion and pyrolysis maximum mass loss temperature, decrease the initial pyrolysis temperature and considerably increase mass residue. Moreover, MAP and DAP reduce the flaming combustion rate of cellulosic materials and completely inhibit smoldering combustion. This study can facilitate a better understanding of the mechanism of pyrolysis and combustion of fire-retarded cellulosic materials.