What is scalding?
Incubation occurs when microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi break down organic material. In the process, heat is released. In poorly ventilated storage areas, this heat can accumulate, with potentially dangerous consequences.
Characteristics of scalding:
- Heat generation: Degradation processes cause the temperature to rise.
- Humidity: Materials with 20-40% moisture content are extra sensitive.
- Oxygen consumption: Lack of ventilation can lead to oxygen deprivation.
- Fermentation: Gases such as CO₂ and methane (CH₄) are formed.
- Smell: Musty, sour or burning.
- Spontaneous combustion: Possible at temperatures above 70°C.
When does scalding become dangerous?
Spontaneous combustion can occur at temperatures from 70°C to 90°C, depending on the material and conditions. Some examples:
- Hay and straw: fire hazard from ±80°C
- Compost or manure: risk from 70-80°C
- Wood pellets: similar risk, depending on moisture and density
Once vapor, smoke or a strong odor is detected, the risk is real. Additional oxygen from disturbance can speed up the burning process.
How do you recognize scalding?
Incubation is often not visible on the outside, but watch for the following signs:
- The material feels warm to the touch
- Vapor or condensation is released
- A musty or sour odor is present
- Dark discoloration or mold formation
- In severe cases: smoke development
Risky materials
Incubation occurs mainly at:
- Hay or straw with high moisture content
- Compost and manure piles
- Wood pellets
- Organic waste in bulk storage
Prevention measures against scalding
To prevent scalding and spontaneous combustion, the following steps are important:
- Provide adequate ventilation in warehouses
- Measure regularly the moisture content of materials
- Mix or rotate the material to prevent heat build-up
- Detect scalding early with thermal cameras or sensors
Sensor Partners offers several solutions for early detection of scalding, including thermographic systems for waste and scrap storage. View our solutions for fire detection in scalding or read it knowledge article on thermography in fire protection.
