ABSTRACT

The role of free radical formation, generated from the interaction of fuel with oxygen/oxidants, is also considered important for initiation as well as propagation of combustion - particularly flaming combustion. Special features peculiar to mining, differentiate it from normal fire combat operation - though the broad principles and the means employed are the same. Solid fuels burn slowly at first with steady rise of temperature when its vapours are distilled. The growth and development of a fire are classified into three distinct stages. In the first stage sufficient volatiles are produced with rise in temperature. Flaming combustion starts in the second stage and if, enough quantities of combustibles are available the fire continues to grow in size consuming the combustibles at an ever increasing rate in the third stage. The third stage poses the most severe threat and is difficult to deal with.