Ignition Handbook

This hefty reference encompasses the field of ignition (or, using an older term, inflammation) of unwanted fires. Emphasis is on the practical aspects of determining causes of fires, with the theoretical underpinnings summarized in a way that should suffice for even advanced practitioners. The book is not meant as an introduction to fire science; readers are presumed to have background in either fire sceince/engineering or in fire investigation. The audience is wide, including practitioners involved in investigating past fires as well as engineers seeking to minimize the potential for ignition in the buildings and facilities they design. After coverage of terminology and fundamentals, the well-referenced chapters discuss ignition of gases and vapors, dust clouds, liquids, common solids, and elements, as well as self-heating, explosives and pyrotechnics, external ignition sources, and preventive measures. A section of color plates supports the text, and the final two chapters include information on specific materials and devices, and useful tables. The author heads a consulting firm in the field. Annotation (c)2003 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)