Thermal Response of Composite Materials to Elevated Temperatures

Different decomposition models of varying complexity were developed to predict the heat and mass transfer through charring/reinforced materials that are undergoing decomposition. Models included a heat conduction based model, decomposition model neglecting internal pyrolysis gas convection, and decomposition model with internal convection. Experimental methods were developed to measure the decomposition kinetic parameters and thermal properties required for input into the different models. Model results compared well with experimental data. Agreement between the heat conduction model was further improved by modifying the heat of decomposition to account for the internal convection effects.