brennbarer

The term brennbar (German for "combustible" or "flammable") refers to substances or materials that can ignite and burn when exposed to heat, sparks, or flames. In German-speaking regions, the term is commonly used in safety regulations, chemical classifications, and everyday language to describe items with a risk of fire.

Materials classified as brennbar include common household items such as wood, paper, textiles, and certain plastics, as well as industrial substances like solvents, oils, and some chemicals. The risk of fire depends on factors such as volatility, concentration, and environmental conditions. For example, liquids like gasoline or alcohol are highly brennbar due to their low flash points—the temperature at which they emit enough vapor to ignite.

In Germany and Austria, brennbar materials are subject to strict safety standards, particularly in workplaces and storage facilities. The classification often appears on product labels, safety data sheets (SDS), and hazard warnings. For instance, materials may be labeled as leicht brennbar ("easily combustible") or stark brennbar ("highly combustible") depending on their fire risk. These labels help inform users about proper handling, storage, and emergency procedures.

In everyday contexts, brennbar is also used metaphorically to describe things that are easily affected or destroyed, though this usage is less common than its technical meaning. Understanding the properties of brennbar substances is essential for preventing fires and ensuring workplace and public safety. Proper ventilation, fire extinguishers, and fire-resistant storage solutions are common measures to mitigate risks associated with combustible materials.