ALKALI-METAL IONS AND THEIR EFFECTS ON SMOLDERING AND IGNITION OF COTTON UPHOLSTERY FABRICS - A LITERATURE-REVIEW

Several studies have previously suggested that alkali metal ions such as potassium and sodium play a critical role in the smoldering and ign ition of cotton upholstery fabrics. We have conducted an extensive rev iew of the relevant literature to identify potential sources of these ions and to delineate possible mechanisms by which they affect the smo ldering and ignition of cotton upholstery fabrics. The hazard associat ed with the cigarette ignition of cotton upholstery fabrics is address ed in terms of statistics on fire fatalities. Potential sources of alk ali metal ions on the cotton fiber have been identified as being (1) f rom soil and agricultural chemicals used during the growth of the cott on plant and (2) from alkali agents used in textile wet processes such as dyeing and finishing. A general framework and pathway of cellulose degradation, smoldering combustion and ignition to flaming combustion is presented. Potential effects of alkali ions on each of these proce sses have been analyzed. The most probable role of these ions is sugge sted to be a catalytic effect on the oxidation of carbonaceous char (s moldering combustion).