Protective clothing fibres for fire-fighters

Global demand for flame-retardant synthetic fibres has grown sharply recently with applications cited for various purposes. The combustion process is explained and then flammability factors examined. The three groups of fibre types are readily flammable fibres, low flammability fibres and non flammable fibres. Fabric construction is examined and oxygen concentration discussed. Four techniques of fabric flame retardation are listed. Fire-fighter's garments are then described with the properties necessary to ensure safety and comfort, and weight is a crucial factor. Fibres are then described: polybenzimidazole (PBI); polyvinylchloride (PVC); polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE); aramid fibres (poly para-phenilene terephthalamide or PPTA); polyamide-imide fibre "Kermel"; and prylanit. The latter can be exposed to relatively high temperatures for a short time without subjecting the wearer to any direct risk. The features of this fibre are discussed and its future potential felt to be considerable.