Fire Resistant Fibers Research Articles

Integration of ceramic matrix systems into coreless filament wound fiber-reinforced composite lightweight structures for lunar resource utilization

Integrating ceramic matrix systems into coreless filament winding (CFW) enables the creation of sustainable, heat- and fire-resistant fiber composite lightweight structures. This study introduces a chemically bonded ceramic matrix system based on metakaolin, tailored for space applications utilizing lunar resources. The system employs acidic activation for processing with basalt/mineral fibers and alkaline activation for carbon fibers composites. Initially, the constituents of the matrix system are outlined, alongside potential synthesis pathways from lunar resources. Various formulations, incorporating different additives, are proposed. Through coupon compression testing, the most performative formulations for each activation type are selected for further investigation. The addition of zirconium silicate resulted in a higher compressive strength without significantly affecting the compressive modulus. The study then proceeds to experimentally characterize the matrix system’s viscosity. Subsequently, the processability of the proposed matrix system with CFW is demonstrated through the fabrication of generic medium-size lattice samples. Finally, these samples undergo destructive structural testing in compression. While emphasizing material development aspects, the investigation concludes that the feasibility of the proposed concept is validated through the successful fabrication and testing of generic CFW samples, affirming its potential use in space-related structural applications.

An Analysis of the Performance and Comfort Properties of Fire-Protective Material by Using Inherently Fire-Retardant Fibers and Knitting Structures

This paper investigates the development of fabric materials using several blends of inherently fire-resistant (FR) fibers and various knitted structures. The samples are evaluated with respect to their performance and comfort-related properties. Inherently fire-resistant fibers, e.g., Nomex, Protex, carbon and FR viscose, were used to develop different structures of knitted fabrics. Cross-miss, cross-relief, and vertical tubular structures were knitted by using optimum fiber blend proportions and combinations of stitches. Several important aspects of the fabric samples were investigated, e.g., their physical, mechanical and serviceability performance. Thermo-physiological and tactile/touch-related comfort properties were evaluated in addition to flame resistance performance. An analysis of mechanical performance indicated that the knitted structure has a significant influence on the tensile strength, bursting strength and pilling resistance. The cross-relief structure proved to be the strongest followed by the cross-miss and vertical tubular structures. The FR station suits made from 70:30 Protex/Nomex exhibited the best combination of tensile and bursting strength; therefore, this material is recommended for making a stable and durable station suit. Interestingly, it was also concluded from the experimental study that knitted samples with a cross-relief structure exhibit the best fire-resistance performance. Fiber blends of 70:30 Protex/Nomex and 70:30 Nomex/carbon were found to be optimum in terms of overall performance. The best flame resistance was achieved with Nomex:carbon fiber blends. These results were confirmed with vertical flammability tests, TGA, DTGA and cone calorimetry analysis. The optimization of blend composition as well as knitting structure/architecture is a crucial finding toward designing the best FR station suit in terms of mechanical, dimensional, thermal, thermo-physiological and flame resistance performance.

High volume fly ash and basalt-polypropylene fibres as performance enhancers of novel fire-resistant fibre reinforced cementitious composites

This study attempts to address the fire resistance of fibre reinforced cementitious composite (FRCC) while considering sustainability. Sustainable FRCC mixes were developed by varying the contents of silica fume and high-volume fly ash (up to 60% by wt.), along with a hybrid combination of basalt and polypropylene fibres. The FRCC was exposed to temperatures up to 800 °C, and its appearance, mass loss, and compressive properties were analysed. Exceptional performance in terms of resistance to cracking and strength retention was observed. The relative residual compressive strength of one of flyash based mixes was found to be 93.46%, 117.48%, 102.03% and 38.48% between 200 and 800 °C. Also, fly ash enhanced the mass retention properties especially with higher replacement levels and at higher temperatures. The influence of temperature on hydration products in the system has been explained using scanning electron microscope, X-ray diffraction, and thermogravimetric analysis. Furthermore, the improvement in thermal performance is demonstrated as a novel incentive for addition of fly ash in high volumes.

Flammability and comfort properties of blended knit fabrics made from inherently fire-resistant fibers to use for fire fighters

Achievement of better comfort properties in station suits of fire fighters without compromising flame retardancy is an utmost necessity. Inherently fire-resistant fibers play vital role in this scope. In this work twenty-three plain single jersey knitted fabric samples were developed by using five inherently fire-resistant fibers. The fibers used were meta-aramid Nomex, fire resistant (FR-Viscose, modacrylic (Protex), FR-polyester (Recron) and carbon fibers. All the fibers were blended in different blend ratios. Vertical flammability test was performed to investigate the flammability properties. Thermal characterization of the samples was done using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Thermophysiological and wearing comfort properties of all samples were evaluated. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was carried out for the evaluation of surface morphology of the fibers after charring. Results of vertical flammability test revealed that sample containing 100% Nomex fibers produced minimum char length. Nomex and carbon fiber blended fabric provided better moisture management along with better flame retardant behavior. Statistical tool named as Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was utilized for the optimization of all responses. All the samples were ranked as per principal component analysis. Sample containing 50/50 FR-polyester and FR-viscose fibers was found to be the top ranked, as this sample provided optimum flammability and comfort related performance.

Electrospun Nanofibers Based on Polymer Blends with Tunable High-Performance Properties for Innovative Fire-Resistant Materials.

The main concern of materials designed for firefighting protective clothing applications is heat protection, which can be experienced from any uncomfortably hot objects or inner spaces, as well as direct contact with flame. While textile fibers are one of the most important components of clothing, there is a constant need for the development of innovative fire-retardant textile fibers with improved thermal characteristics. Lately, inherently fire-resistant fibers have become very popular to provide better protection for firefighters. In the current study, the electrospinning technique was applied as a versatile method to produce micro-/nano-scaled non-woven fibrous membranes based on various ratios of a poly(ether-ether-ketone) (PEEK) and a phosphorus-containing polyimide. Rheological measurements have been performed on solutions of certain ratios of these components in order to optimize the electrospinning process. FTIR spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy were used to investigate the chemical structure and morphology of electrospun nanofiber membranes, while thermogravimetric analysis, heat transfer measurements and differential scanning calorimetry were used to determine their thermal properties. The water vapor sorption behavior and mechanical properties of the optimized electrospun nanofiber membranes were also evaluated.

Phosphorated cellulose as a cellulose-based filler for developing continuous fire resistant lyocell fibers

Developing a sustainable fire resistant regenerated cellulose fiber for realizing large scale industrial production is an urgent research topic. In this work, a cellulose-based flame retardant filler, phosphorylated microcrystalline cellulose, was successfully synthesized. The acquired phosphorylated cellulose (P-Cell) as a modified bio-based flame retardant was cost-effective and compatible with cellulose spinning dope. The preparation process of fire resistant fiber was the same as the lyocell fibers on a factory scale pilot production. The lyocell fibers loaded with 20 wt% P-Cell exhibited favorable thermal stability and fire retardancy. The char residue amount of fire resistant lyocell fibers remarkably increased by 118% at 700 °C compared with the pure lyocell fibers. As micro combustion calorimetry estimated, the total heat release and peak heat release rate of modified fibers significantly decreased by 87.6% and 82.4%, respectively compared with those of pure lyocell fibers. The flame retardant mechanism was ascribed to the formation of phosphorus-containing oxides and char layer in the condensed phase and the generation of incombustible compounds in the gaseous phase.

Flammability and Comfort Properties of Inherently Fire-Resistant Fibers and Their Blends Used for the Station Suits of Fire Fighters

Flammability and Comfort Properties of Inherently Fire-Resistant Fibers and Their Blends Used for the Station Suits of Fire Fighters

The investigation of crimp and spin-finish effects on the processing behavior of polyaramide fibers during the spinning process

The spinning process optimization has been the subject of many articles and publications. They mainly study cohesion and friction forces presented as the most influent mechanical phenomena on fiber workability. However, they were limited to natural fibers studies and more specifically cotton. Therefore, and to enlarge these studies, this article focuses on the processing behavior of fire-resistant fibers of polyaramide type. Besides, inner fiber characteristics have a significant effect on their mechanical behavior. Consequently, the object of this article is to investigate the effect of fiber material and its characteristics, mainly spin-finish and crimp, on mechanical processing behavior, which includes fiber cohesion, and frictional resistance.

Influence of Fiber Length on Mechanical Properties of Paper Based on Heat Resistant and Fire-Resistant Polymer Fibers

Information on industrial paper obtained from special purpose heat-resistant and fire-resistant fibers by the method of fiber swelling is presented. Results of a study of the effect of fiber cutting length on the mechanical properties the paper are presented. Corresponding dependencies are established.

Fire resistant fibre reinforced vermiculite concrete with volcanic application

Fire resistant fibre reinforced vermiculite concrete with volcanic application

Development of fire resistant wool polymer composites: Mechanical performance and fire simulation with design perspectives

Wool, as a naturally fire resistant fibre, has been incorporated with other additives, such as ammonium polyphosphate (APP), talc and maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene (MAPP), to manufacture polypropylene (PP) based composites. A single-screw extruder, attached with a flat die, has been used to successfully produce continuous wool-PP composite sheets. Furthermore, the significant roles of nitrogen content of APP and the talc in forming the effective char to increase the composites' fire retardancy have been identified through cone calorimeter tests. In particular, it is highly interesting to note that a reduction of APP content from 20 to 15wt% was possible to achieve a direct self-extinguishment (V-0 rating) of the composite. The decrease in APP amount has also led to the reduction of material cost due to APP's relatively high price (USD 13–14/kg) and limit the possibility of deteriorating mechanical properties due to APP addition. The MAPP has enhanced thermal stability and mechanical properties compared to those without the additive, which could be attributed to the improved interfacial adhesion between wool and PP. A computational fluid dynamics model has also been developed by Fire Dynamics Simulator to mimic the cone calorimeter tests, which agreed reasonably well with the experiments.

Evaluation of PVA and PBI-based engineered-cementitious composites under different environments

Strain-hardening cement-based composites (SHCCs) as engineered cementitious composites are well-known for their ultra-ductility. The unique strain-hardening property of SHCCs is mainly attributed to the mix composition; however, the advanced research behind this type of construction technology must be extended to evaluate such properties in different environments. The fire-resistivity of SHCCs is questionable and a matter of concern, specifically when non-fire resistant fibers are used. The most well-known utilized non-fire resistant fibers, such as poly vinyl alcohol (PVA) fibers, are unable to withstand a critical high temperature of 400°C, despite their unique properties under normal conditions. At this critical temperature, PVA fibers thermally decompose into gases, create voids and thus lead to a disappearance of the strain-hardening behavior and decrease other hardened properties. On one hand, the developed voids due to melting of PVA fibers might prevent explosive spalling from occurring under the effect of pressurized pore water vapor. On the other hand, polybenzimidazole (Poly-[2,2′-(m-phenylen)-5,5′-bisbenzimidazole]) short fibers (PBI) are non-metallic and fire resistant fibers that have a higher melting point beyond the critical temperature of PVA and have an effective chemical resistance. In the current study, the effect of the hybridized combination of PVA and PBI on the strain-hardening and microstructural properties of SHCC was investigated under normal conditions and at a critical fire temperature of 400°C.

The Influence of Matching Flameresistant Materials on the Thermal Protective Performance of Firefighter Uniform

Firefighter uniform made of various flame retardant materials is put as the object. Analyzing the thermal protective performance of different composite structures covering outer fabrics, lagging materials and comfortable layer materials, discuss the best combination of supporting structures. Adoption flash fire simulation, verify the integrated prevention ability of firefighter uniform. The matching of different levels has a significant impact on the thermal protective performance, first the outer layer, then comfortable layer and thermal protective coating. Although inherent fire resistant fiber for the main material of the outer fabric has better durability and thermal protective performance, the fire might experience obvious contraction which leads to embrittlements. For insulation flocculus, the ratio of aramid fiber 1313 and aramid fiber 1414 at 9:1 has excellent thermal insulation. For comfortable layer, inherent fire resistant fiber has no notable effect on the clothing’s overall thermal protection performance; the polysulfonamide fiber is a relative better choice.

Fracture and Mechanical Properties of Fire Resistant Fibre Composites Containing Fine Ground Ceramic Powder

Significant advances in the field of building materials leads to increasingly frequent enforcement of these high performance materials in real constructions. Efforts to maximize the efficient use of non-renewable resources and especially energy-intensive materials lead to efforts to achieve maximum efficiency and usability [. Paper presents results of an experimental program focused on development of fire-resistance composites based on aluminous cement with fine ground ceramic powder (FGCP). Studied fibre composites were loaded by temperature 600 °C and 1000 °C. The influence of applied thermal load on composites was evaluated by means of fracture energy, compressive strength, bending strength and modulus of elasticity in bending.

New-generation fire- and heat-resistant textile materials for working clothes

Fire- and heat-resistant textile materials for making working clothes have been created. Using indigenous fire-resistant fibres, in combination with final finish treatment with special compounds, the requisite protective properties of the fabrics have been realized with respect to the following parameters: oxygen index, fire resistance, burn resistance, retention of strength properties after exposure to open flame, etc. Sanitary-hygienic certificate has been received and normative technical documents for commercial cloth manufacture have been drawn up.

Fiber reinforced cement-based composite system for concrete confinement

This paper reports on a feasibility study to develop a reversible and potentially fire-resistant fiber reinforced cement-based matrix (FRC) composite system for concrete confinement applications. The first part of this study aimed at selecting a candidate FRC system from different fiber (including glass and basalt) and inorganic matrix combinations on the basis of: constructability, by verifying the workability and ease of installation on concrete cylinders; structural performance, by evaluating strength and deformability enhancement in confined concrete cylinders tested under uniaxial compression; and compatibility, by examining the quality of the concrete–FRC interface and the level of fiber impregnation using scanning electron microscope images. In the second part of this study, the selected FRC system was further assessed through compression tests of additional concrete cylinders confined using different FRC reinforcement ratios, where both axial and in-plane (radial) deformations were measured to assess confinement effectiveness. The feasibility of making the application reversible was investigated by introducing a bond breaker between the concrete substrate and the composite jacket in a series of confined cylinders. The prototype FRC system produced a substantial increase in strength and deformability with respect to unconfined cylinders. A superior deformability was attained without the use of a bond breaker. The predominant failure mode was loss of compatibility due to fiber–matrix separation, which points to the need of improving fiber impregnation to enable a more efficient use of the constituent materials. Semi-empirical linear and nonlinear models for compressive strength and deformation in FRC-confined concrete are also presented.

Geopolymer technology, from fundamentals to advanced applications: a review

Geopolymers are inorganic polymers with 3D framework structures having superior mechanical and physical properties. This new generation of cementitious materials has potential applications in fire resistant fibre composites, concretes for infrastructure applications, sealants and ceramics. Geopolymers are environmentally friendly substitutes for Portland cement: geopolymers in many applications not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also consume large volumes of industrial wastes such as fly ash, mine tailings and metallurgical slag. A brief review is given of geopolymer fundamentals and technology. Coverage includes structure and preparation, raw materials and the properties, particularly mechanical properties, of geopolymers. Current and potential applications of geopolymers and their advantages are introduced and discussed. The status of the geopolymer industry and the challenges that must be overcome to achieve wide acceptance and application of these novel cements is considered. Finally, future research topics are proposed. It is concluded that factors including the conservative view of new materials have limited application of geopolymers but progress is being made and geopolymers will be an important part of sustainable development in the twenty-first century.

Synthesis of bromine-containing polyarylene-1,3,4-oxadiazoles using bromine-containing terephthalic acids and preparation of fibres based on them

The possibility of using bromine-containing terephthalic acids as monomers for the preparation of fire-resistant fibres has been examined. Satisfactory fibre physicomechanical properties are achieved at a bromine content up to 36%. Films and fibres become self-extinguishing.

Properties of Fluorenone Polyesters

Abstract Several high-glass-transition-temperature (Tg) biphenyl fluorinate polyesters and co polyesters, suitable for conversion into film and fiber, were found to have very good thermal and flame resistance and produced medium char yields in the 30–60% range. The fact that the polyester structure does not contain nitrogen is a potential advantage in fire-resistant fiber applications, since there is no likelihood of HCN generation during burning.