Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) Certification Practice Test

What is the term for the stage of wood burning where the wood begins to break down chemically?

1. Combustion

2. Pyrolysis

3. Gasification

4. Carbonization

The correct answer is: Pyrolysis

The term for the stage of wood burning where the wood begins to break down chemically is pyrolysis. This process involves the thermal decomposition of organic material, such as wood, in the absence of oxygen. During pyrolysis, the heat causes the structural components of the wood, including cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, to break down into smaller, volatile compounds, gases, and char. This is a critical phase in wood combustion as it prepares the material to release flammable gases and other products that will eventually contribute to the flames and heat. Understanding pyrolysis is essential for those involved in chimney safety and wood burning practices, as it directly affects the efficiency and emissions of the burning process. Recognizing this stage helps in assessing how wood burns and how to manage combustion conditions for optimal performance and safety in chimneys and stovepipes.