What is Smoldering Phenomenon?

 

Smoldering is a slow, low-temperature, flameless form of burning.

Instead of open flames, it produces glowing embers, heat, smoke, and sometimes toxic gases.

It usually happens with solid materials like:

• Wood

• Coal

• Fabric

• Foam

• Electrical cables (insulation material)

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How Smoldering Happens:

• Oxygen reaches the material surface slowly.

• Combustion happens at a lower temperature (typically 400–700°C).

• No flames at first — just slow burning, heat, and smoke.

• Over time, if enough heat builds up it can transition into open flame fire.

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Real-World Examples:

• A cigarette slowly burning without a flame.

• Electrical cables overheating and smoking before catching fire.

• Charcoal burning red-hot without flames on a barbecue.

• Furniture foam smoldering after a short circuit or a small spark.

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Why Smoldering is Dangerous:

• Hard to detect early — no flames just heat and smoke.

• Can last for hours unnoticed.

• Can suddenly flare up into a major fire when enough oxygen or heat builds.

• Produces toxic gases like carbon monoxide.

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In simple words:
Smoldering is a “silent” burning that looks harmless but can turn deadly very fast.