Flame retardants for other fibres

The most successful approach for flame-retarding acrylic fibres is to copolymerise halogen-containing monomers into the fibre. These modacrylic fibres have excellent permanent flame retardancy and acceptable fibre properties. Some problems including reproducibility of dyeing gave rise to their substitution by flame-retardant modified polyester, for example for curtain fabrics and other decorative textiles. 

Polypropylene fibres can be flame retarded with bromine- and phosphorous-containing additives to the polymer melt. However, very high add-ons are necessary and fibre properties are adversely affected. When polypropylene is used in carpets, flame retardancy can be achieved by incorporating halogen-containing compounds and antimony trioxide into the latex backing.  

Inorganic fibres such as ceramic and glass may be incorporated into, or used entirely for, textile products where appropriate to take advantage of their inherent non-flammability. Product examples are curtains, textile tapestries and fireblockers in airplane, automotive and military textiles. 

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