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Smoke is
the product of incomplete combustion made visible by the presence of small
particles of carbon. All burnable substances involved in the fire create
complex odors. Burnt plastics, fabric, meat, carpet and draperies provide
an acceptable analogy of complex odors. Smoke generally dissipates quickly
after the fire leaving residue. Rapid cooling particles of the incomplete
combustion will leave a difficult film and odor on and in the entire
building or home. Smoke is acidic causing discoloration, corrosion and
overall damage to the property.
Fire, as well as the heat and smoke associated with it, is one of
the most damaging perils to property. The heat can reach extreme levels
and actually melt many objects not even touched by the fire itself. Smoke
can also cause damage to the entire property even when the fire is
contained to one room, and will continue to corrode objects not cleaned.
Understanding the
Chemistry of Fire
The chemistry of fire is a series of complex reactions, sometimes
involving well over 100 chemical elements. The many different substances
that can fuel a fire and the different resulting chemical reactions that
take place mean that fires may be very different in their cause, their
composition and their waste. Mitigation professionals must understand the
chemistry of each fire in order to react appropriately and to effectively
restore the area.
Fires are classified into two
groups: simple and complex. Simple fires result in complete combustion and
are usually fueled by relatively pure fuel, producing no soot and only
small amounts of gasses, fumes and smoke. Complex fires, on the other
hand, are the result of incomplete combustion and are fueled by synthetic
materials, including those found in many toys, carpets, furniture,
clothing, plumbing and bathroom equipment. As complex fires cause the most
damage and leave the most waste.
Smoke Damage
Description :
After a fire, smoke residue remains on the carpet in form of dry
soot, smeary or sticky flakes. The residue generally varies depending on
the source and the rate of burning. Strong acrid odors may accompany these
visible effects.
Cause:
Due to combustion, materials in and around carpets release noxious
gases as well as solid or liquid residue that remains on the carpet. This
residue may penetrate in to the fibers.
Treatment:
Quick ventilation with fresh air goes a long way in dispersing the
odors caused by smoke. The burnt components of the carpet have to be
removed while other smoke residue can generally be cleaned. It is
advisable to consult an experienced Fire Restorer about this. |
