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Accelerants, or accelerators, are substances that increase the rate of a natural or artificial chemical process. They play a major role in chemistry, as most chemical reactions can be hastened with an accelerant. Understanding accelerants is crucial in forensic science, engineering, and other fields where controlled chemical reactions are essential. Accelerants function by either altering a chemical bond, speeding up a chemical process, or changing the reaction conditions. Unlike catalysts, accelerants may be consumed during the process.
They are commonly used in contexts such as fire investigation where they can indicate arson, in construction to speed the curing of building materials, and in sulfur vulcanization to produce rubber products such as tyres. In fire investigation, accelerants are often detected through laboratory analysis of fire debris. Various types of accelerants exist, including liquids, solids, and gases, each with specific properties and applications.