What happens to soot when it comes in contact with moisture?

When soot comes into contact with moisture, it can react chemically with water and other pollutants present. This reaction can lead to the formation of acid residues, which are byproducts of the carbon-containing materials undergoing a reaction with moisture. Acid residues can cause additional damage to materials and surfaces, making them particularly concerning during fire damage restoration. The presence of moisture can facilitate this process, potentially resulting in more aggressive corrosion or degradation of surfaces than would occur with dry soot alone.

Understanding this property is crucial for technicians in the field of fire and smoke restoration, as it informs their cleaning and restoration strategies—ensuring that both soot and any resultant residues are adequately addressed to prevent further damage to the property.