The state of the art of transport models for charring solid degradation

This paper presents a review of the current state of the art of transport models for charring solid degradation. Both cellulosics and synthetics are examined. Advanced solid-phase models, taking into account multi-step primary and secondary reactions and transport phenomena, are available for the first class of materials. Extensive applications have enabled the effects of model and physical parameters to be investigated on pyrolysis regimes and characteristics. Further work is needed to improve quantitative predictions, especially in relation to wood and flame-retardant effects. Advanced models are also available for the thermal response of glass-filled (composite) polymers. However, the literature still lacks comprehensive formulation of the main chemical and physical processes for both charring plastics and intumescent systems.