Experimental investigation into mechanical destruction of intumescent chars

The paper presents a broad discussion on the problem of mechanical destruction of intumescent chars in the application to fire protection of buildings in conditions of fires and protection of rocket engines in conditions of intensive mass and heat flows. Data on mechanical strength of various types of chars in hot and cold states are presented and discussed. Various methods are compared. The rheological approach to destruction is concerned. Some aspects of destruction behavior observed previously are explained. Copyright © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.