Research and Markets: Flame resistant fibres and fabrics
The Introduction of Tough Legislation Regarding the Provision
of Flame Resistant Apparel Has Contributed to a Drop in the Number of
Fire-Related Injuries and Fatalities in Recent Decades
DUBLIN, Ireland, Jul 16, 2004 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com)
has announced the addition of Flame resistant fibres and fabrics to their
offering.
Flame resistant fibres and fabrics are used in the manufacture of industrial
workwear, firefighters' apparel and professional motor racing apparel to
protect the wearer against fires, electrical arcs and molten metal splashes.
The introduction of tough legislation regarding the provision of flame
resistant apparel, and the growing use of such apparel, has contributed to a
drop in the number of fire-related injuries and fatalities in recent
decades.
Fire departments which issue high-tech turnout gear to their employees have
seen a decline in the number of burn injuries. In some cases the decline has
been dramatic. Similarly, the number of fatalities in professional motor
racing has fallen sharply since the 1960s when it became compulsory for
drivers to wear flame resistant garments. Stricter regulations regarding
fire safety and changes in market requirements have spurred the development
of new fibres, treatments and fabrics.
These new products have joined established names such as DuPont's Nomex;
Indura, made by Westex; Kermel; and Proban, which is produced by Rhodia. In
fire resistance applications, asbestos fibre and glass fibre have been
replaced by high-tech protective fabrics which are comfortable and which
fulfill stringent performance criteria. Multi-functional fabrics have become
increasingly available. These combine flame resistance with other protective
characteristics such as chemical resistance, anti-static properties and high
visibility.
New generations of flame retardant treated (FRT) cotton offer improved
durability, low shrinkage, better colourfastness and easy care
characteristics. Such materials have stimulated overall demand in the
market. They have also paved the way to new application areas for FRT cotton
such as underwear, T-shirts and sweatshirts.
Report Contents:
Summary
Introduction
Flammability of fibres and fabrics
Factors affecting the flammability of apparel
Fabric construction
Surface texture
Garment design
Presence of contaminants
Flame resistance
Measurement of flame resistance
Flame retardants
Flammability standards and regulations
Test methods for flame resistant apparel
Applications of flame resistant fabrics in performance apparel
Industrial workwear
Firefighters' apparel
Professional racing apparel
Key producers of flame resistant fibres and fabrics and their products
