FLAMMABILITY AND COMBUSTION PROPERTIES OF POLYOLEFINIC MATERIALS.

Polyolefin samples were subjected to thermogravimetric analysis, pyrolysis and flame structure studies. Polyethylenes (low and high density) and polypropylene give stable counterdiffusion and diffusion flames for which temperature and species profiles can be determined with excellent reproducibility. Low oxygen indices and mass burning rates were measured for these materials, whereas the tendency of polystyrene to char limits the application of these methods. The limitations of the Low Oxygen Index determination as a practical test are discussed and its validity questioned.