A Concise Introduction to Fire Chemistry

This book introduces the complex concepts of fire through the principles of chemistry. The phenomena of combustion are highly intricate, and this book serves as a valuable guide for students, fire science professionals, safety experts, environmentalists, atmospheric scientists, chemical engineers, and heuristic minds. It unpacks the molecular mechanisms that drive ignition, flame propagation, and suppression across diverse environments. Beyond conventional flame chemistry, it explores the mechanism of cool flames, radical formation, and auto ignition reactions. To environmentalists and chemists it provides an account on the formation and growth mechanism of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). The book outlines key pathways such as hydrogen-abstraction–acetylene-addition (HACA) mechanism, phenyl radical recombination, and ring expansion, which contribute to PAH nucleation, soot formation, and flame luminosity. These mechanisms are essential for understanding pollutant generation, thermal radiation, and material degradation in high-temperature fires. With clear illustrations, reaction schemes, and real-world applications, this book equips readers with the foundational knowledge to interpret and control combustion phenomena from cool flames to complex soot chemistry making it an indispensable resource in modern fire science through chemistry.