Changes in the combustion characteristics of living quercus mongólica leaves with altitude variation

In this study, combustion tests were conducted on living Q. mongolica leaves to compare their combustion characteristics at different altitudes. Leaf moisture content was measured and combustion characteristics were then studied using an ignition temperature tester, a cone calorimeter, and a smoke density chamber. The samples contained 117-145% moisture. The temperature of non-flame ignition was 275-308 °C and did not vary with altitude. Samples from 1,300 m and 1,500 m ignited more quickly than the others, but went out after 2 and 4 seconds, respectively. Heat release increased and reached its peak at 1,100 m, thereafter decreasing. Smoke release decreased and smoke density increased in proportion to altitude. The mean release density of CO rose gradually with increasing altitude while that of CO₂ increased from 1,200 m.