How Fire-Resistant Fabrics Work

1. Resistance begins at the fiber level

There are two main types:

• Inherent flame-resistant fibers such as Nomex or Kevlar: naturally non-flammable, self-extinguishing, and do not melt or drip.

• Treated fibers like cotton or polyester: coated with flame-retardant chemicals that activate under heat to form a char barrier, limiting oxygen access.

2. Fire response mechanism

Upon exposure to flame:

• The fabric carbonizes instead of igniting violently

• It prevents flame spread

• No melting or dripping, reducing burn injury risk

3. Role of surface treatments

Surface chemicals can:

• Create a thermal barrier

• Release non-flammable gases like CO₂ to dilute surrounding oxygen

• Reduce the emission of toxic fumes

4. Durability of flame resistance

• Inherent fabrics maintain their fire-resistant properties over time and repeated washes.

• Treated fabrics may lose performance if improperly cleaned or used long term.

Conclusion

Flame-resistant fabrics are designed not just to resist ignition, but to control and slow down fire, minimize harm, and protect lives in high-risk environments.