Two types of fabrics typically serve the market for flame-resistant protective clothing. These typical fabrics are:
But what do these terms mean, and is there a difference? Simply put, inherent FR implies that the fibres used in the fabric are naturally flame resistant - like aramids and modacrylics.
FR-treated means that the flame-resistant property is a result of a chemical treatment that is applied to the fabric.
FR chemical treatment dates back to the introduction of Proban® by Solvay back in the 1950s. Some of the earliest applications of Proban® treated cotton fabrics were in children's nightwear. Nowadays, several chemical suppliers can make this chemical called 'THPC chemical.' THPC is a durable flame retardant treatment for cotton and other cellulosic fibres and blends. Durability is achieved by the formation of a cross-linked inert polymer within the fibre, which makes sure the FR properties won’t be washed out.
It's, of course, significant that this chemical treatment can turn cotton, which is a relatively cheap fabric, into a fabric with flame retardant properties. And its cost-effective positioning has turned this fabric into a mainstream solution used in protective FR clothing.
While it all started with 100% cotton fabrics, different blends were introduced to add specific characteristics to the fabric, like better mechanical performance, lower shrinkage, and better colour fastness.
Cotton is a well-known fibre and is widely regarded as comfortable — since we use this a lot at home. Thanks to the chemical treatment, there are excellent protection features added to cotton, but there are also downsides to choosing FR-treated fabrics:
Ultimately, there is no such thing as bad FR Fabrics. They all have to meet the specifications they claim to protect professionals against. Therefore, when choosing protective clothing, it more comes down to elements like colour fastness, comfort, industrial launderability, the cost, and the importance you give to each of these elements to define what suits you best.
We know there are many options for protective clothing available in the market and that it can be challenging to make the right choice. Our experts in FR-fabrics are, therefore, more than happy to guide you on which option is best for your workforce. Get in touch and make an appointment with us today. Or download the FR Fabrics Guide:
Discover how to improve your protective clothing decisions, download our complete and comprehensive FR Fabrics Guide today:
If you have any questions on Bright Yellow Fabric, Interlock Knits. We will give the professional answers to your questions.
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