The mechanism of action and the synergistic effect of nitrogenand phosphorus-containing fire retardants in fire protection and wood and peat fire suppression

Abstract

The factors exerting a significant influence on the termination of the combustion of natural materials (wood and peat) were studied with the use of synthetic nitrogen- and phosphorus-containing fire retardants with different efficiencies. With the use of a mathematical experimental design method, it was confirmed that the inhibition of gas-phase radical processes by volatile nitrogen-containing products is the predominant process of combustion suppression. It was found that the synergism of the nitrogen–phosphorus flame retardants is determined by their complex action: phosphorus mainly enters into organomineral structures in a the condensed phase, and nitrogen inhibits reactions in a gas phase.