Fuel model development for the Greek East-Mediterranean forest litter layer

SUMMARY In order to develop fuel models used as input in wildland fire propagation models, it is necessary to determine relevant vegetation properties concerned with the prediction of the combustion process. This research considers property measurements of two biomass species, namely Pinus halepensis and Pinus brutia. Both species are commonly found in Greece and other Eastern Mediterranean countries. The physical application of the biomass properties relates to the structure of pine forest litter. Measurements have been recorded of the characteristics of the litter layer in situ, and common fuel properties have been determined in the laboratory using samples of the two litter species. In addition, DTA, TG and DTG analysis were performed of the two litter species. The results of the measurements are presented in a format suitable for input in fire propagation models. Comparisons of data have been made with those from other literature sources. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.