Regression rates of polymers during burning of their volatile degradation products

Regression rates as functions of air flow rates and oxygen content of the oxidant gas as well as the distance of the polymer surface from the top of the reaction vessel have been investigated for poly(methyl methacrylate), poly(α‐methyl‐styrene), a polymide, and isotactic polypropylene. The results are discussed from the standpoint of reaction kinetics, considering regression rates and energies of activation for diffusion and degradation.