This experiment investigated the smoldering characteristics of cellulosic (cotton) upholstery fabric when exposed to a heating element that simulated a lit cigarette. Upholstery fabrics made from cellulosic materials are susceptible to smoldering when exposed to a heat source such as a cigarette. The main cause of death from residential fires are those caused by cigarettes igniting upholstery fabric (Smith & Long, 1995).
Findings
Select fabrics with an understanding of the way in which they react to fire; fabrics that are mostly cellulosic are especially susceptible to smoldering.
Key Concepts
 Smoldering is defined as the burning of porous solid materials that combust due to transfer of heat and mass, causing surface chemical reactions at low temperatures. This process results in thermal degradation, smoke, and a visible glow (the beginnings of a flame).
Cotton fibers may have chemicals that are leftover from wet processing (e.g., potassium, sodium ions) or fertilizer and soil conditions (e.g., alkali metal ions), making them susceptible to smoldering.
For ignition of smoldering to happen, both a minimum temperature and surface area must exist. The lighter weight the fabric, the more quickly it will burn, as there is a greater surface-to-volume ratio affecting the airflow through the fabric.
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