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In fire protection, an accelerant is any substance or mixture that accelerates or speeds the development and escalation of fire.[1] Accelerants are often used to commit arson, and some accelerants may cause an explosion. Some fire investigators use the term "accelerant" to mean any substance that initiates and promotes[clarification needed] a fire without implying intent or malice. The accelerant works by burning rapidly. As such, the accelerant itself is consumed in the process, and should not be considered as a catalyst. In Arson investigation, the significance of accelerant is to detect the presence of a such substance in order to proved that the fire is classified as an arson.[2]
A fire is a self-sustaining, exothermic oxidation reaction that emits heat and light. When a fire is accelerated, it can produce more heat, consume the reactants more quickly, burn at a higher temperature, and increase the spread of the fire. An accelerated fire is said to have a higher "heat release rate," meaning it burns more quickly.
- ^ Bell, Suzanne (2013-04-18), "accelerant", A Dictionary of Forensic Science, Oxford University Press, doi:10.1093/acref/9780199594009.001.0001/acref-9780199594009-e-0006, ISBN 978-0-19-959400-9, retrieved 2023-12-15
- ^ "What is an Accelerant? (with pictures)". All the Science. 2023-11-06. Retrieved 2023-12-15.