Abstract
A theoretical and experimental study of polymer combustion in an opposed flow diffusion flame (OFDF) is presented. An algebraic formula is derived, expressing the burning rate as a function of the fluid mechanic and thermodynamic variables. A polymer sample feed system has been developed which continuously positions the burning polymer surface within ±0.01 mm of a given set point, allowing accurate regression rate and detailed solid and gas phase flame structure measurements. Regression rate measurements of twelve commercial polymers as a function of oxygen concentration and oxidizer flowrate are reported. From these measurements and the theory, values of the Spalding transfer number, B , are derived and can serve as a useful flammability index for these materials. The OFDF technique also provides a quantitative method for evaluating the effectiveness of flame retardants. Solid and gas phase temperature profiles for charring and non-charring polymers under various oxygen concentrations and oxidizer flow conditions indicate markedly different chemical reaction mechanisms for charring and non-charring polymers.
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