Abstract
Background Few studies have focused on the integral assessment of live fuel flammability in the boreal forest. Aims We aimed to examine the flammability of living needles of jack pine (Pinus banksiana) as characterised by their form, moisture and chemical content at different ages and times of the year. Methods With a calorimeter and open flame, we estimated needle ignitability, consumption rate, maximum speed and amount of energy released. We measured their form, moisture and chemical content. Key results Needle form has a major effect on ignitability, whereas chemical composition primarily influences the amount and rate of energy release. Needles <1 year old are the least flammable; they are rounder and voluminous, with higher moisture and nitrogen content. Needles ≥1 year old are more flammable; they are drier, more curved, thinner, longer, and contain more carbon and terpenes. Needles release more energy during the early growing season, when starch and lipids are at their peak concentrations. Conclusions Moisture content is not the major factor affecting the flammability of jack pine live needles; physicochemical changes specific to age and month of collection are the most influential factors. Implications Assessing the multi-faceted properties of live fuels flammability will help to comprehend stand- and landscape-scale fire behaviour.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
