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The likelihood of ignition of dry-eucalypt forest litter by firebrands
Title | The likelihood of ignition of dry-eucalypt forest litter by firebrands |
Publication Type | Journal Article |
Year of Publication | 2015 |
Authors | Ellis, P |
Journal | International Journal of Wildland Fire |
Volume | 24 |
Issue | 2 |
Start Page | 225 |
Pagination | 225-235 |
Date Published | 03/2015 |
Type of Article | Journal |
Abstract | Ignition probability of litter of dry-eucalypt forest by standard flaming and glowing firebrand samples was tested in a wind tunnel. Standard flaming firebrands were sections of bamboo sate stick 50 mm long, and flamed for ~9 s in still air. Standard glowing samples were sections of shed bark of Eucalyptus globulus 50 mm long, 15 mm wide and ~2 mm in thickness. These were burnt at their terminal velocities and at deposition had a mean mass of 0.2 g and would remain glowing for 2.5 min in wind. Ignition was tested using air speeds of zero, 1 and 2 m s–1, and oven-dried fuel moisture contents between 4 and 21%. For flaming samples, ignition probability was insensitive to variation in fuel and airflow characteristics and was a function of wind (no wind or wind) and fuel moisture content. For glowing samples, ignition probability was a function of fuel moisture content and wind speed. The models confirm the dominating influence of fuel moisture, are consistent with expert observations in the field and provide a practical measure of ignition likelihood by firebrands. It is argued that airflow turbulence and relative humidity are potentially significant for ignition by glowing firebrands. |
URL | http://www.publish.csiro.au/nid/114/paper/WF14048.htm |
DOI | 10.1071/WF14048 |
Refereed Designation | Refereed |