In fire behavior, what is the term for ignition initiated by a chemical process inherent to the material?

The term for ignition that is initiated by a chemical process inherent to the material is auto ignition. This phenomenon occurs when a material reaches its ignition temperature through internal chemical reactions, such as decomposition or oxidation, without the need for an external ignition source like a spark or flame. This process can happen under certain conditions of temperature, pressure, and concentration of materials.

Auto ignition is particularly significant in contexts where materials are at risk of spontaneously igniting, such as with certain oils or chemicals that can produce heat over time. Understanding this concept is critical for fire safety and prevention strategies, as it helps in identifying and mitigating risks associated with various materials that might not require a typical source of ignition.