Definition

Smoke is a combination of the airborne solid and liquid particulates and gases generated when a material undergoes combustion and, the air that they are mixed with.

Particulate smoke is a product of incomplete combustion and is generated during both smoldering and flaming combustion, although the nature of particles and their mode of formation are very different.

Smoke from Smoldering Combustion

Smoke from smoldering is similar to that obtained when any carbon-based material is heated to temperatures at which there is chemical degradation and evolution of volatiles. The volatiles mix with cool ambient air to create a mist consisting of minute droplets of tar and liquids with high boiling points.

Smoke from Flaming Combustion

Smoke from flaming combustion consists entirely of solid particles, most of which are formed in the gas phase as a result of either incomplete combustion or high-temperature combustion in a low temperature environment.