Transition Metal Catalysts and Their Role in Spontaneous Auto-Ignition

Commercially available linseed oil and products containing linseed oil are well known to be the culprit of incendiary events in homes around the country. While linseed oil is high in linolenic acid, the fatty acid component that is responsible for thermal runaway from uncontrolled auto-oxidation, it is not the only factor to consider when examining fire scenes. Often overlooked is the role of metallic drying agents derived from cobalt and manganese complexes which accelerate the curing process by catalyzing the cross-linking process between fatty acid residues. These drying agents serve to kick-start events of auto-ignition, including in oil varieties that are not known to auto-ignite. The study herein describes the role of transition metal catalysts and their ability initiate thermal runaway.