What is the most common fuel char is found on?

The most common fuel char is typically found on wood because wood is a primary combustible material in many fires. When wood burns, it undergoes pyrolysis, which breaks down the cellulose and lignin in its structure, producing a residue known as char. This char is primarily composed of carbon and is left behind after the volatile components of the wood have burned away.

Understanding the formation of char on wood is crucial in fire investigations, as it can provide information about the fire's intensity, duration, and the type of material that was involved. While char can occur on a variety of substances, including plastics and other organic materials, wood remains the most prevalent source due to its widespread use in construction and everyday objects.

In contrast, materials like glass and metal do not produce char since they do not combust in the same way as organic materials. Therefore, recognizing wood as the most common substrate for char formation helps investigators identify the dynamics of the fire scene more effectively.