Small-Scale Vertical Flammability Testing for Fabrics.
Small-Scale Vertical Flammability Testing for Fabrics.
(10380 K)
Villa, K. M.; Krasny, J. F.
Fire Safety Journal, Vol. 16, No. 3, 229-241, 1990.
Keywords:
fabrics; flammability testing; small scale fire tests;
self-extinguishment; ignition source; char length;
thermoplastics; textiles; heat release; thermoplastic
fabrics
Abstract:
Many small-scale vertical flammability tests have been
designed to assess 'self-extinguishment' of fabrics
after exposure to a small flame, where
self-extinguishment refers to the cessation of flaming
or glowing of the specimen upon removal of the ignition
source. The specimens are held vertically in a U-shaped
metal frame and ignited at the bottom. The criteria
chosen for these tests are char length, afterflame,
afterglow, and melt drip. These tests were first
promulgated in the 1930s for use on flame-retardant
cellulosics and wools. The applicability of the test to
char-forming as well as thermoplastic fabrics will be
discussed.
Building and Fire Research Laboratory
National Institute of Standards and Technology
Gaithersburg, MD 20899