@Article{JFBI-16-187,
author = {Reischl , UweFalcon , NikkiMijovic , Budimir and Goonetilleke , Ravindra S.},
title = {Simplifying Fabric Flammability Measurements for Use in Public Health Practice},
journal = {Journal of Fiber Bioengineering and Informatics},
year = {2024},
volume = {16},
number = {2},
pages = {187--192},
abstract = {<p style="text-align: justify;">Fire behavior of textiles varies depending on fiber composition, manufacturing process and any additional
treatments applied. Such variables can contribute to significant differences in the flammability making it
difficult to estimate the risk of fire ignition. Clothing fires can cause burns with minor injuries and burns
leading to serious injuries that may require hospitalization. The elderly and children are especially at
risk since they may not recognize the dangers of a clothing fire and how to react quickly to extinguish the
flames. Health and safety professionals are frequently asked to recommend reducing such risks. However,
information about the flammability properties of non-FR treated clothing worn by the public is generally
not available. The objective of this research program was to develop a simplified method for defining
the flammability of commercially available fabrics. 50 samples were tested including Cotton, Wool, Silk,
Nylon and Polyester. Changes in the weight of a sample resulting from combustion including the time
involved in the combustion cycle was used as a indictor of the total heat generated by the fire and the
risk and severity of a burn injury. The results showed that the Cotton and Wool fabric samples created
the highest risk of burn injury while the Polyester fabric created the lowest risk. These conclusions are
based on two criteria: Total time associated with a combustion cycle and the loss of fabric mass during
the combustion cycle. The proposed method can be carried out using a standard laboratory fume-hood,
a precision weight scale and a stopwatch.</p>},
issn = {2617-8699},
doi = {https://doi.org/10.3993/jfbim02801},
url = {http://global-sci.org/intro/article_detail/jfbi/23076.html}
}