Abstract

Simultaneous Thermal Analysis (STA) unifies the simultaneous application of thermogravimetry and differential scanning cal- orimetry to one and the same wood sample in a single instrument, under perfectly identical conditions – same atmosphere, gas flow rate, pressure, heating rate, thermal contact, etc. A new thermal analysis approach to distinguish between the flaming and glowing combustion of wood was discussed. The results obtained by STA were used in a new way, to reveal the influence of plasma-aided capillary impregnation on thermal decomposition and glowing of wood controlled by oxygen and nitrogen containing flame retardant. New integral criteria of thermal behavior and decomposition such as specific enthalpy change, and specific heat flux or heat release rate, have been developed by investigat- ing three species rain-forest wood (Mérida, Yucatán) – Mexican white cedar (Cupressus Lusitanica); Caoba mahogany (Swietenia macro- phylla); and Tzalam (Lysiloma bahamensis).