Some Hazardous Properties of Motion Picture Film

The hazards in handling or storing cellulose nitrate motion picture film are due to the unusually low temperature of ignition of the film, the extremely rapid rate of combustion, and the possibility of its decomposing (exothermic) even in a restricted supply of air (oxygen), with the evolution of explosive and poisonous gases. Data and information in respect to these hazardous properties of cellulose nitrate film are given. The importance of complying with the regulations of the National Board of Fire Underwriters can not be overestimated in obtaining adequate provision for handling and storing film safely. — Film having a cellulose acetate base was first submitted to the Laboratories about 20 years ago, and as the result of an extensive investigation, the acetate-base film in the form of ribbon for motion pictures was listed as slow-burning, the fire hazard being somewhat less than that of common newsprint paper in the same form and quantity. Data in respect to the hazardous properties of slow-burning cellulose acetate film are given, together with a brief description of tests conducted on slow-burning films at Underwriters' Laboratories.

Print ISSN

0097-5834

Published

1936-12

Content type

Original Research

DOI

10.5594/J08601