Thermal properties of forest fuels

Abstract

Forest fuels are heterogeneous mixtures of a number of green and dead woody substances. Most common are leaves, grass, conifer needles, moss, bark, and wood. As a result of past fires, an area may also contain some charcoal. With the exception of charcoal, these materials are in various stages of decay or decomposition. Logs, limbs, and decayed wood in an advanced stage of decay are referred to as punk. Mixtures of decayed needles, leaves, and grass are usually called duff.

Citation

Byram, G.M.; Fons, W.L. 1952. Thermal properties of forest fuels. Interim Technical Report AFSWP - 404. Division of Fire Research, Forest Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture. 34 p.