In a groundbreaking exploration of flame retardants, Stephen McCann, general and technical manager at Halt, uncovers the capabilities of a new fire-retardant liquid named Burnblock, which is safe enough to drink, though not recommended due to its salty taste. Tested against traditional flame retardants, Burnblock has demonstrated its ability to form a protective char layer and prevent flames from spreading when applied to wood products. Despite the protective qualities of Burnblock, details about its specific chemical composition remain undisclosed, although it contains natural components and citric acid.
Historically, flame retardants have existed for centuries; however, many older formulations are known to be highly toxic, leading to a demand for safer alternatives. Experts like Alex Morgan highlight the significant gap in investment for safer materials. McCann explains that Burnblock-treated wood has been utilized in various high-profile projects across the UK and Ireland, including construction sites like HS2, where safety during evacuation is a priority.
To treat wood with Burnblock, Halt employs an autoclave that utilizes a unique pressure and vacuum process to infuse the fire retardant deep into the timber. This innovative technique changes the wood's burning behavior significantly. Meanwhile, Richard Hull, a fire retardants expert, expresses skepticism toward the longevity of new flame retardant technologies, citing numerous fleeting concepts over the last few decades.
The challenge of making plastics flame resistant extends beyond that of wood, with materials like polyethylene having a tendency to ignite rapidly due to their chemical properties. However, initiatives such as PureGRAPH by First Graphene propose a solution by integrating graphene to slow down the burning process in plastics, forming protective layers during a fire. In the context of increasing wildfire occurrences, innovative approaches to fire retardancy are emerging. Researchers like Eric Appel from Stanford University are developing gel-like substances that can be sprayed on structures before wildfires strike, creating effective barriers against flames.
This comprehensive inquiry into modern flame retardant solutions highlights ongoing efforts to enhance building safety through innovative materials and techniques, paving the way for a future where fire safety in construction becomes increasingly efficient and effective.
