See below:

J L Mazerat Wrote:
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> I agree with the alternate hypothesis. Anything is
> possible. We also know that the building code have
> settled on 212 degrees F as the temperature where
> ignition of wood from hot surfaces can take place.
> The testing I mentioned earlier is the closest I
> have seen as to someone replicating an event and
> having an outcome that was relatable to the fire
> event that took place. I am sure there are more,
> but have not seen any.

If "anything is possible," we are all out of a professional career. As professionals, we are constrained to apply science. Science is the compilation of reliable knowledge. The science and the application of the Scientific Method defines what can and cannot happen.

The 212 degrees F or 100 degree C requirement is not based on the ignitability of wood in the building codes. It is based on the thermal degradation of wood and the formation of char that is a necessary, but insufficient condition for the self-heating of wood. See [www.fpl.fs.fed.us]

>
> We know the event takes place in real life. We
> should continue to try and replicate the event in
> a laboratory setting so that we can get a better
> understanding as to what is taking place. This is
> a continuous learning experience.

We know a fire took place in these incidents. It may not be known as to the detailed hypothesis of what took place when science is applied. We have a limiting theory and no exemplar full-scale tests that support this hypothesis at the lower temperatures. More science is needed.

Douglas J. Carpenter, MScFPE, CFEI, PE, FSFPE
Vice President & Principal Engineer
Combustion Science & Engineering, Inc.
8940 Old Annapolis Road, Suite L
Columbia, MD 21045
(410) 884-3266
(410) 884-3267 (fax)
www.csefire.com