What is the term for the process by which high temperatures decrease the strength of wood?

The term for the process by which high temperatures decrease the strength of wood is pyrolysis. This process involves the thermal decomposition of wood when it is exposed to heat, leading to the breakdown of its chemical structure. As temperatures increase, components like cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin within the wood begin to break down into gases, char, and other by-products. This degradation significantly reduces the structural integrity and load-bearing capacity of the wood, making it weaker and more prone to failure during a fire.

Understanding pyrolysis is essential in the context of fire dynamics, as it helps firefighters assess the risks associated with burning structures and the behavior of materials under heat exposure. Identifying this process allows for better strategies in firefighting and hazard mitigation.