Vertical Flame Test Research Articles

Construction of efficient and environmentally friendly bio-based flame retardant cotton fabric through layer by layer self-assembly of alkylammonium functional silsesquioxane/phosphorylated sodium alginate

As an important source of green cleaning flame retardants, bio-based materials have been widely studied by researchers. However, the development of efficient biobased flame retardants and convenient finishing methods was of great significance for the functional finishing of materials. Herein, a convenient and efficient flame retardant cotton fabric was prepared via layer by layer self-assembly (LbL) by alternating precipitation of a novel bio-based flame retardant phosphorylated sodium alginate (PSA) and alkylammonium functionalized siloxane (A-POSS). The effect of coating number on flame retardancy and thermal properties of coated cotton fabric was systematically studied. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) results showed that residual char contents of AP/PS-15BL under air and N2 atmospheres increased by 252.0% and 225.2%, respectively, compared with control cotton. In vertical flammability tests, both the AP/PS-10BL and AP/PS-15BL showed self-extinguishing behavior and successfully passed the UL-94 V-0 rating. More importantly, the LOI value of AP/PS-15BL was significantly increased to 35.0% from 20.0% of pure cotton fabric. Additionally, coated samples showed good mechanical properties and washable resistance. In CONE test, the peak heat release rate (PHRR) and total heat release rate (THR) of AP/PS-15BL decreased by 89.3% and 49.3% respectively, compared with control cotton. Therefore, this green and convenient flame-retardant finishing method has great application potential in the multi-functional finishing of cotton fabrics.

A novel superhydrophobic cotton fabric constructed by rosin-based polymer and nano-hydroxyapatite for oil/water separation

The discharge of oily wastewater in daily life and industrial production has inflicted severe damage on the natural environment and human health. Therefore, it is urgent to separate oily wastewater. Herein, a rosin-based polymer (poly(DR-DMP)) was prepared by polymerization of double-bond functionalized rosin acid (DR) and diethyl(methacryloyloxymethyl)phosphonate (DMP). And a novel superhydrophobic cotton fabric was constructed by poly(DR-DMP) and nano-hydroxyapatite (HAP). The water contact angle (WCA) and sliding angle (SA) of poly(DR-DMP)@HAP fabric achieved values of 162° and 8°, respectively. Meanwhile, the poly(DR-DMP)@HAP fabric had excellent separation performance for several oil/water mixtures, with oil fluxes up to 8941.83 L·m−2·h−1 and separation efficiency (more than 95.35 %). Furthermore, the poly(DR-DMP)@HAP fabric exhibited excellent separation performance for various emulsions, and also had excellent superhydrophobicity and oil/water separation performance after mechanical and chemical treatment. Through the vertical flame test (VFT) and thermogravimetric analysis (TG), the results showed that poly(DR-DMP)@HAP fabric had a certain flame retardancy. Overall, poly(DR-DMP)@HAP fabric had excellent superhydrophobicity, self-cleaning, oil/water separation and flame retardancy, which had great application potential in oil/water separation.

Bio-based phytic acid/amino acid complex coating for antimicrobial and flame-retardant cotton fabrics

Here, a novel multifunctional coating containing bio-based phytic acid (PA), L-glutamic acid (L-Glu), and trimesoyl chloride (TMC) is constructed by a simple soaking strategy, giving cotton fabrics excellent flame retardancy, washability, and antibacterial properties. The coating layer on the cotton surface was prepared via the electrostatic and hydrogen bonding between PA and L-Glu, accompanied by the interface polymerization between PA, L-Glu, and TMC. Among them, the limiting oxygen index value of the treated cotton fabrics (C2 and C2-TMC) was as high as 40 %. During the vertical flammability test, both C2 and C2-TMC cotton showed self-extinguished behavior with a short damaged length (≤50 mm). Remarkably, the LOI of C2-TMC sustained a high value (30 %) even after 300 laundering cycles, maintaining its self-extinguishing behavior in the vertical combustion test. Additionally, in the cone calorimetry test, peak heat release rate and total heat release of treated cotton were lower than control cotton. Surprisingly, after 30 or 60 laundering cycles, the C2-TMC cotton exhibited excellent antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans due to the continuous exposure of PA and L-Glu. Moreover, the coating layer on the cotton surface had little impact on the mechanical properties and feel of the fabric.

One‐pot synthesis of aluminum phosphate‐supported, chitosan‐linked expandable graphite as a novel flame retardant for textile

AbstractAlthough cotton is the most common polymer in daily life, its limited use is due to its propensity to catch fire. To solve this issue, we developed an innovative flame‐retardant aluminum phosphate‐supported, chitosan‐linked expandable graphite composite (CAlPEG). The CAlPEG was synthesized by the reaction of natural graphite, aluminum phosphate, and chitosan biopolymer in a one‐pot method. When CAlPEG was coated with cotton fabric and exposed to continuous flame, the fabric did not catch fire up to 760 s, whereas only expandable graphite (EG), aluminum phosphate (AIP), and CS, coated cotton fabric burned within 20 s. Flame‐retardant proficiency of CAlPEG‐coated cloth was confirmed by flame tests such as a limiting oxygen index (LOI) and vertical flammability test. The blank cotton has 17% LOI and is completely burnt out. On the other hand, the as‐prepared composite has a 43% LOI rating, which denotes a high level of flame retardancy. The VFT test result showed the formation of a 3 cm char, which confirms the flame‐retardant material possesses self‐extinguishing qualities. The article develops a new method for utilizing bioresources such as chitosan and offers fresh perspectives on the environmentally friendly synthesis of phosphorylated EG‐linked chitosan on the AlPO4 matrix.

Effects of biomaterial on the properties of waterborne intumescent fireproof coatings

AbstractSilk fibroin was used to enhance the properties of the fireproof coating, ensuring the safe evacuation of occupants in a fire accident. The effects of biomaterial on the properties of the coatings were investigated by fire protection test, thermogravimetric analysis, limited oxygen index, vertical flame test, water resistance test, and mechanical properties test. The carbon layers were characterized after the fire protection test by scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy to analyze the microstructure and chemical composition. The results show that the coating with 6% SF demonstrated the best fire protection, thermal stability, and water resistance. The temperature on the backside is only 255.9°C, and the residual weight is 37.52%. However, the coating with 4% SF exhibits good mechanical properties.

Preparation and application of halogen-free and efficient Si/P/N-containing flame retardants on cotton fabrics

Cotton fabric is extensively utilized due to its numerous applications, but the flammability associated with cotton fabric poses potential security risks to individuals. A halogen-free efficient flame retardant named poly [(tetramethylcyclosiloxyl spirocyclic pentaerythritol)-piperazin phosphate] (PCPNTSi) was developed to consolidate the fire retardance of cotton fabrics. After PCPNTSi treatment, the limiting oxygen index (LOI) of cotton fabric with 30 % weight gain (CP3) was raised to 32.8 %. In the vertical flammability test (VFT), CP3 has self-extinguished performance with a char length of 8.7 cm. The heat release rate (HRR) of cotton fabric with 20 % weight gain (CP2) is 78.8 % lower than that of pure cotton fabric (CP0). In addition, the total smoke release (TSP) of CP2 is 41.7 % lower than that of CP0, indicating PCPNTSi gives cotton fabric a good capability to inhibit smoke release. Finally, the possible flame retardant mechanism was discussed by the data of scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier Transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and thermogravimetric infrared spectroscopy (TG-IR). The results show that PCPNTSi is an intumescent flame retardant acting in both gas phase and solid phase.

Arone-containing cyclomatrix-type polyphosphazene hybrid microspheres for epoxy resin: Enhancing fire safety and mechanical properties

Arone-containing cyclomatrix-type polyphosphazene hybrid microspheres (PZK) were synthesized to enhance both the fire safety and mechanical performance of epoxy resin (EP). The chemical structure and micro-morphology of PZK were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Subsequently, PZK was employed in fabricating EP thermosets. Thermal properties of the PZK modified EP thermosets were comprehensively assessed through thermalgravimetric analysis (TGA) and dynamic mechanical analysis. The results indicate that PZK endowed EP with enhanced char yield and storage modulus, attributed to its exceptional thermal stability and distinctive microsphere structure. Additionally, with only a 1.5% loading of PZK, EP achieved a UL-94 V-1 rating during vertical flame testing, accompanied by an increased limiting oxygen index of 28.3%. Additional analysis with a cone calorimeter demonstrated that the addition of PZK markedly reduced the peak heat release rate, total heat release, fire growth rate, and total smoke production of EP, indicating notable efficacy in suppressing heat and smoke release. Char residue and pyrolysis products were analyzed using SEM, TG-FTIR, and pyrolysis gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, revealing that PZK effectively inhibits the release of combustible gases from EP during thermal decomposition. The expected generation of Ph—O• radicals from arone units in PZK suggested a gaseous free radical trapping mechanism. The phosphazene framework played a crucial role in forming condensed-phase char due to its exceptional thermal stability. Consequently, PZK exhibited a typical biphasic flame-retardant mechanism for EP. Notably, the study observed that the introduction of PZK simultaneously enhances the tensile strength, flexural strength, and modulus of EP, with a particularly significant improvement observed in impact strength. This research expands the scope of investigation into the preparation and flame-retardant application of cyclomatrix-type polyphosphazene hybrid microspheres in polymers.

Eco-friendly surface coating of wool/polyester blend fabric using a combination of montmorillonite and polyquaternium 10: Enhanced flame-retardant performance using layer-by-layer assembly

Wool and polyester blends are sensitive to heat and pose fire hazards. In this study, the flame retardancy of wool/polyester blended fabric was improved by coating montmorillonite (MMT) and polyquaternium-10 (PQ-10) using the layer-by-layer assembly (LBL) method. This was done to confirm the feasibility of combining eco-friendly materials such as MMT and PQ-10 coatings and to secure the flame retardancy of the wool/polyester blend. The phosphate-buffered solution enhanced the intermolecular forces during pretreatment. Scanning electron microscopy and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy analyses confirmed the successful deposition of the MMT/PQ-10 combination on the fabric, and the deposition on the fabric surface increased as the number of coating layers increased. The thermogravimetric analysis results showed that the MMT/PQ-10 combination effectively reduced the maximum decomposition temperature, contributing to improved high-temperature thermal stability. Additionally, compared with the untreated fabrics, the coated fabrics exhibited a 38.2% increase in residual substances, and flame-retardant properties enhanced up to 27.3%. As a result of the vertical flame test, the MMT/PQ-10 combination improves the cohesiveness of the fabrics and prevents melt dripping, contributing to the improvement of flame retardancy.

Si-N Matrix as an Effective Fire Retardant Source for Cotton Fabric, Prepared through Sol–Gel Process

In this study, process control factors such as dipping time, heat treatment time and curing conditions were optimized to prepare N-Si network sol–gel-based coatings on a cotton fabric. The dipping time was varied from 14 h to 30 min, the heat treatment time at ~90 °C was varied between no heating conditions to 15 h and the curing was performed at 165 °C. The microstructure of the coating was analyzed using low electron scanning microscopy (LV-SEM), while a compositional study of the coated substrate was carried out using FTIR and EDS techniques. From the thermal and combustion analysis of the coated samples using thermogravimetric and vertical flame test techniques, significant resistance to the degradation process was observed, particularly in the initial stages, in addition to the highest char residue for DI-0.5 h-15~32.93%. Similarly, for DI–5 h–RT, the peak degradation temperature was around ~372 °C, accompanied by a notable char residue of approximately 31.12%. The flame spread and burning rate profile further supported the findings; DI-0.5 h-15 and DI-5 h-RT had the lowest flame spread.

A cationic, durable, P/N-containing starch-based flame retardant for cotton fabrics

A cationic, durable flame retardant for cotton fabrics, 6-(2-(dimethoxy phosphoryl)-2-(trimethyl ammonium)) methoxy-2-methoxy-polysaccharide ammonium phosphate (DTPAP), was synthesized. Its structure was verified by NMR and FTIR spectroscopy. According to the FTIR spectra and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), DTPAP formed P(=O)-O-C bonds with cellulose molecules and firmly grafted to cotton fabrics, giving the fabric a high durability. DTPAP-25-treated fabrics passed the vertical flame test (VFT), and the limiting oxygen index (LOI) was 43.9 %. After 50 laundering cycles (LCs), the DTPAP-25-treated fabrics had an LOI of 29.9 %, passed the VFT, and retained their flame retardancy. EDS data showed that, compared with engrafted cationic ammonium phosphate flame retardants, the DTPAP-treated fabrics contained fewer metal ions. Cone calorimetry data showed that DTPAP-25-treated fabrics did not display concentrated heat release. The results suggested that DTPAP exhibited a condensed-phase flame retardant mechanism, and the introduction of cations into the ammonium phosphate flame retardant reduced ion exchange, which improved the durability.

Formaldehyde-free and durable phosphorus-containing cotton flame retardant with -N=P-(N)3- and reactive ammonium phosphoric acid groups

A flame retardant (FR) hexachlorocyclotriphosphazene diethylenetriamine ammonium phosphoric acid (HDAPA) was synthesized. Vertical flammability test and limiting oxygen index (LOI) results showed that cotton samples finished with HDAPA solutions (15 % and 20 %) could pass vertical flame retardancy test, and LOIs reached 30.1 % and 35.4 % even after 50 laundering cycles according to AATCC 61-2013 3A washing standard (3A), performing flame retardancy and washing durability. Meanwhile, Fourier transform infrared and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analyses suggested that HDAPA was grafted on cotton fibers through -P(=O)-O-C covalent bond. Total heat release (1.98 MJ/m2) and char residue (16.2 %) of HDAPA treated cotton were much lower than those (4.26 MJ/m2, 3.2 %) of untreated cotton. Thermogravimetry results showed HDAPA changed thermal decomposition pathway of cotton fabric, which was further supported by thermogravimetric-Fourier infrared spectrometer results, revealing HDAPA performed a condensed phase flame retardancy mechanism. Scanning electron microscopy implied HDAPA entered amorphous region of cotton fibers to react with cellulose. Mechanical properties of HDAPA treated cotton decreased a little. Although the synthesis process used formaldehyde but no free formaldehyde released. In consequence, the aforementioned results indicated that the introduction of -N=P-(N)3- and -P(=O)(O−NH4+)2 groups to FR was an viable method to improve flame retardancy and durability.

Eco-friendly flame-retardant coatings based on γ-ureidopropyltriethoxysilane for cotton fabrics with improved flame retardancy and mechanical properties

In this study, a bio-based coating was constructed by sol-gel technique deposition based on γ-ureidopropyltriethoxysilane (TESPR) and ammonia phytate (AP) to acquire fire-safety cotton fabrics. The flame retardancy, thermal stability, burning behavior, flame retardant mechanism, and mechanical properties of the coated cotton fabrics were evaluated. With about 9.91% weight gain of TESPR/AP coatings, the coated cotton fabrics self-extinguished in the vertical flame test, and the limiting oxygen index arrived at 31%. The thermogravimetric analysis revealed that although the initial thermal degradation temperature of Cotton/TESPR/AP was lower than that of uncoated cotton fabrics, the char residues in the high-temperature range increased. Meanwhile, the results of the cone calorimetry test revealed that both the heat and smoke production released of cotton/TESPR/AP was greatly reduced during burning. The flame-retardant mechanism of this system was eventually suggested depending on the assessment of gaseous products and char residues. Furthermore, TESPR/AP coatings did improve the breaking force of cotton fabrics compared with that of AP coatings, while retained better air permeability compared with that of uncoated cotton fabrics. These bio-based coatings not only ensure safety, but also provide a practical flame-retardant solution for inflammable natural fabrics.

Optimization of flame retardancy and mechanical properties of cotton fabrics with d-glucosamine hydrochloride and phosphorus-containing polyol coating

This study investigates the utilization of d-glucosamine hydrochloride (DGH) as a carbon donor in intumescent coating systems and as a nitrogen-based flame retardant, leveraging its ability to release ammonia under elevated temperatures to inhibit combustion. The use of phosphorus-containing polyol (PPO) complements the formulation by promoting the formation of char and further inhibiting combustion. The flame retardancy and thermal stability were assessed by using the Vertical Flame Test (ASTM D6413), Limiting Oxygen Index (LOI) Test and Cone Calorimeter Test. A substantial improvement in the treated fabric was reported when a ratio of 1:2 wt/wt. (DGH:PPO) was used in the coating formulation, reporting an LOI value of 30 % and a reduction in the peak heat release rate (p-HRR) of around 88 % compared to the control sample. Additionally, an improvement in the fabric flexibility was attained when concentrations between 5 wt% to 7.5 wt% of DGH were added.

A durable phosphorous-based flame retardant containing double reactive groups for cotton fabrics

Ammonium acryloyl phosphite (AAP) flame retardant with multiple reactive functional groups has been synthesized for use in cotton textiles. Nuclear magnetic resonance was utilized to analyze the structure of AAP flame retardant. The scanning electron microscopy images indicated that some flame retardants penetrated the amorphous region of cotton fibres. The energy-dispersive X-ray and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy spectra suggested that AAP flame retardant was grafted with cellulose through forming the -N-P(=O)-O-C- connection. The laundering cycles (LCs), limiting oxygen index (LOI), cone calorimetry, and vertical flame test (VFT) suggested that AAP-treated cotton (CF/AAP) possessed exceptional flame retardance and durability. The CF/AAP3 demonstrated an initial LOI value of 47.2 %, which remained at 40.7 % even after undergoing 50 LCs following the washing standard (AATCC 61–2013 3A). The thermogravimetric and infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric, and VFT analyses showed that AAP grafting groups underwent a condensed-phase flame retardance mechanism. The X-ray diffraction patterns indicated that the AAP flame retardant affected the diffraction peak structure of cotton fibres crystal a little during the finishing process. After finishing, the cotton fabrics retained their breaking strength and softness effectively. The overall results indicated that incorporating reactive groups such as -N-P(=O)-(ONH4)2 and CH2CH- into flame retardants could reinforce the durability of flame-retardant cotton fabrics.

Enhanced safety and strength of cotton fabrics through a novel ‘H-shaped’ multiple flame retardant elements agent

In response to the new concept of green sustainability, it is necessary to expand the functionality of bio-based natural fibers (such as cotton fabrics) to replace fabrics made from fossil fuels. One potential way of achieving this is through the use of phosphorus, boron and nitrogen based organic flame retardants. This article designs a special flame retardant system with high efficiency, high durability, and enhanced fabric strength. An “H” shaped flame retardant (TBSA) is synthesized using hydroxyethyl methylene phosphate, pentaerythritol diborate, and cyanuric chloride. After simple treatment, flame retardant fabric (TBSA/Cotton) is obtained, with a LOI value of 48.8 %. Self extinguishing is completing in the vertical flame test. The high FR efficiency reflects the progressiveness of multi flame retardant elements. It is worth noting that TBSA/Cotton exhibits excellent durability and improves the strength of the fabric. This is attributed to the covalent bonding between the “H” type flame retardant and multiple cellulose molecules, which compensates for the cracks and holes at the submicroscopic scale of natural cellulose and weakens the molecular slip effect. The research results of this article provide a good opportunity for the development of biomass cellulose flame retardant materials.

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.

Aqua‐mediated in situ synthesis of highly potent phosphorous functionalized flame retardant for cotton fabric

AbstractFlame retardancy in various materials is becoming an increasingly important performance feature. In the textile industries, fire‐related problems have become an important concern over the decade. Herein, the polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and graphene‐supported material were functionalized with trimethyl phosphate (TMP) for the synthesis of flame retardant (FR) composite material [graphene polymer functionalized trimethyl phosphate (GPTMP)] in the aqueous medium, which improves the stability of cotton fabric against flame. Graphene and PVA fabricated with phosphorus functional groups make the fabric more comfortable against fire and help to avoid further spreading of fire. The composite‐coated fabric sustains for a long time on continuous flame with maintaining its initial shape and size. The GPTMP‐coated fabric shows flame retardancy for up to 540 s on constant flame exposure, whereas control samples such as PVA‐, graphene oxide‐, and TMP‐coated fabrics resist for up to 15, 20, and 14 s, respectively. The limiting oxygen index (LOI) and vertical flammability test (VFT) for synthesized composites were performed to confirm and support the flame retardancy property of GPTMP. The GPTMP shows the 35% LOI value and forms the char length of 2.6 cm during VFT. This work provides a simple and eco‐friendly method to obtain novel GPTMP, which has a high potential as a FR for different fabrics, including cotton.

The effect of natural fillers on the mechanical properties and flammability of low-density polyethylene

The effect of 10-40 wt% natural fillers (pumpkin husks, bean sorting waste, pine sawdust) on the mechanical properties and flammability of LDPE was examined. As the filler content increased, the hardness slightly increased and the tensile strength and relative elongation decreased. The tensile modulus more than doubled (pumpkin husks, pine sawdust). The linear combustion rate increased unfavorably, but the assumed flammability class HB40 was achieved, except for LDPE filled with 40 wt% pine sawdust (HB75). At the same time, the temperature in the combustion area decreased in the vertical flammability test.

Polyaniline/chitosan coating as the novel and sustainable flame retardant and UV protection route for silk fabric

The growing awareness of human health and environmental protection stimulates the development of more sustainable flame retardant (FR) approaches. In this study, polyaniline (PANI) with a nitrogen-containing aromatic structure was synthesized as a novel functional compound to improve the FR and UV protection performance of silk fabric. Biobased chitosan was applied to develop the PANI/chitosan coating to improve the binding capability and dispersion uniformity of PANI on the silk surface. The surface morphology, thermal resistance, heat generation capacity, flame retardancy and UV protection performance were explored. The PANI/chitosan coating with 3 wt% PANI endowed the silk fabric with effective flame retardancy. The coated silk fabric self-extinguished during vertical flammability test and possessed a decreased char length of 9.5 cm versus 30 cm of the pristine silk fabric; it could also withstand 20 launderings, showing good laundering resistance. The coated silk fabric displayed markedly decreased heat release behavior. A combined condensed phase and gas phase FR action was suggested for the PANI/chitosan coating on silk fabric. The coated silk fabric also exhibited excellent UV protection with the UPF of 50+ because of the UV-shielding of PANI.

Manufacturing Scalable Carbon Nanotube-Silicone/Kevlar Fabrics.

Carbon nanotube (CNT) hybrid composites were formed by combining a CNT and silicone elastomer solution with Kevlar yarn, Kevlar fabric, and Kevlar veil materials. The integration of a CNT-silicone matrix with Kevlar yarn and fabric materials produced a composite with moderate electrical and thermal conductivity due to CNT fabric combined with the strength of Kevlar fabric or yarn. In the material synthesis, a notable difficulty was that the CNT-silicone did not bond strongly to the Kevlar. The composites passed the Vertical Flame Test ASTM D6413 and the Forced Air Oven Test NFPA 1971. These hybrid composites can have multiple applications in areas requiring favorable conductivity, strength, and flame and heat resistance. The application areas include firefighter apparel, military equipment, conductive/smart structures, and flexible electronics. The synthesis process used to manufacture CNT-silicone/Kevlar composites yielded composite sheets with an area of 2250 cm2. The process is scalable and customizable for the synthesis of CNT composites with tailored properties. Improvements in the bonding of CNT-silicone to Kevlar are being investigated.