Flame-Retardant Design and Protection for Textiles

The high fire hazard posed by textiles is a consequence of the high surface area of the fibers present and the ease of access to atmospheric oxygen. This chapter considers flammability and burning behavior of textiles with reference to the thermal stabilities and combustion of the constituent polymeric fiber types and textile structures. The flammability testing methods, regulations, application-based hazards and performance requirements are discussed in details. Conventional and novel techniques used for flame retardation of textiles have been reviewed and the merits/challenges of each method discussed using specific examples demonstrating their effects on the fire performance of different fiber types.