Why Does Burning Wood Pop. This same principle rings true when burning wet or moist firewood. Firewood popping occurs when burning wood has a high moisture content.
In basic terms, it has something to do with the combustion gases escaping from the wood. When the wood is burned, combustible gasses will be released. Trapped moisture can also cause wood to pop and crackle from the creation of steam.
Firewood Popping Occurs When Burning Wood Has A High Moisture Content.
In fact, as the firewood is burning and combustion is being released into the air, the burnt wood is converted into heat and waste gasses. These air pockets fill narrow passages within the wooden log. Trapped moisture can also cause wood to pop and crackle from the creation of steam.
Once The Fire Burns The Wood.
At that time, the “popping. As the wood heats up, the warmth penetrates deep into these pockets. The popping noise occurs when air pockets in the wood are released.
The Sap/Pitch Liquifies, Then Vaporizes As The Temperature Increases.
This same principle rings true when burning wet or moist firewood. The holes created by the insects will give the gasses an escape route. If you place a pot of water on the stove and activate the burner, it will evaporate as steam.
Once The Gas Pressure Builds Up It Will Create An Energy Burst With Mini Explosion.
As the wood burns the moisture is heated, and as the moisture is heated it expands and turns into gas. Gas is created by trapped moisture locked in small pockets within the wood. In basic terms, it has something to do with the combustion gases escaping from the wood.
As The Trapped Moisture Heats Up, It Will.
Gases expand rapidly when heated. In all actuality, these popping and cracking sounds are coming from a chemical reaction inside of your fireplace. As the gas escapes, the fire will emit an audible pop or crack.