ASHRAE F28-2009 (SI)
Combustion is a chemical reaction in which an oxidant reacts rapidly with a fuel to liberate stored energy as thermal energy, generally in the form of high-temperature gases. Small amounts of electromagnetic energy (light), electric energy (free ions and electrons), and mechanical energy (noise) are also produced during combustion. Except in special applications, the oxidant for combustion is oxygen in the air. The oxidation normally occurs with the fuel in vapor form. One notable exception is oxidation of solid carbon, which occurs directly with the solid phase.Chapter Table of ContentsPrinciples of Combustion