Fire Barrier products from Better World Technologies

New and Improved

    Unlike the Fire Barrier, FIRE BARRIER II is a newly developed product from 5th generation development with fire retardation products. Fire Barrier II is a water based polymer product that can be applied as a coating under two conditions of retardation durability. Completely NON-TOXIC and NON-CORROSIVE.

    The first condition is a non-durability condition. This means simply that when the Fire Barrier II is applied and air dried, it will last indefinitely provided it does not come in contact with a complete washing process i.e., washing of curtains, sheets, pillow cases, clothing, carpeting, wall surfaces, plastics, papers, metals, etc.

    The second condition is a semi-durable condition. This means that when the Fire Barrier II is applied it can be dried with the aid of heat i.e., clothes dryer, hair dryer, oven baking, hot air gun, etc. and the polymer base will adhere to the fibers of the material be it wood or fabric.

How it Works

    Fire Barrier II is easy to use and comes in 4 series of application for the consumer. The X-10, X-20, X30 and X100. It is applied by either spraying, painting or soaking. Depending upon the application, Fire Barrier II works in concert with water saturation and dispersion to blend with the polymer ingredients and attaches itself around the wood, paper or fabric fibers and provides a retardant non or semi durable protection of flame redundancy. With metal and plastics it provides a strong and durable surface protection.

    The X-10 Is a clear, highly concentrated water-based coating that provides excellent fire retardant properties when applied to combustible surfaces. X-10 can be used on the following surfaces:

Wood materials, paper materials, metal and plastic materials.

APPLICATION -Can be sprayed on, rolled on, brushed on. FAST DRYING without heat on all surfaces. Comes in a READY TO USE form. Cleans up with soap and water.

The X-20 Is a safe, non-toxic, non-corrosive, water based fire retardant finish and additive. It finds usefulness to different combustible materials including lumber, plywood, textiles, paper, grasses, trees, brush and other combustible materials. It is considered to be effective in treating vegetable topsoil, and grasses offering semi-durable fire resistance to weather and at the same time enriching the ground with valuable nutrients. Fast transparent drying without heat.

APPLICATION-Can be sprayed on, rolled on, brushed on. FAST DRYING without heat on all surfaces. Comes in READY TO USE form.

The X-30N Is a safe non-toxic, non-corrosive; water based fire retardant LIQUID -READY TO USE product that is for all natural fabric applications. When applied and dried with heat it will provide a SEMI-DURABLE resistance to flames. This means that when washing the fabric, not all the product will wash out and most will remain for future protection. Can be either air-dried or heat assisted for durability.

APPLICATION- can be either sprayed on, brushed on, rolled on or soaked-in. Clean up with soap and water

The X-30 S and SS Are safe non-toxic, non-corrosive, water-based fire retardant LIQUID -READY TO USE product The X-30S is for all Synthetic fabrics and materials and the X-30 SS is for a blend of natural/synthetics of up to 70%. All the features of the X-30N are shared and the same with the X-30 S and X-30 SS.

The X-100 Is a safe, non-toxic, non-corrosive, water-based fire retardant DRY POWDER for mixing with all types of paint, poly urethane, varnishes, shellacs, etc. It is different from the X-10, X-20, X-30 series but provides the same protection as a semi- durable resistant to flame. Mix ratio is as directed per gallon of specific paint.

APPLICATION -As any other paint product and washes up with water. It dilutes to a clear property.

The SAFETY BLANKET Is a treated 100% cotton fiber blanket that can used to put out a flame upon a stove or person instantly. They measure 3' x 3' and come completely treated and ready for use. Great to carry on outdoor vacations or keep in the car in case of car fire or fires resulting from accidents of any kind. And as with the other "X" Series products. The Fire Blanket is a semi-durable resistant product and completely non-toxic and non-corrosive. The Fire Blanket has a baked in treatment so as to provide the highest level of RETARDANT PROTECTION.

Achieved Ratings

The Fire Barrier II "X" Series has been independently tested by the Fire Prevention Service of the European Internal Affairs who tested the Fire Barrier II "X" Series to the ASTM E-84 10 Minute Fire Test Tube and Surface Flame spread test. Also, the SOS 12.1.044-84 10 Minute Flame Chamber Test. This product is rated and classified to the NON- COMBUSTIBLE CLASS of materials, CLASS A, CLASS 1.

ICBO -International Building Code Organization Standards- Can be used under that standard in and out of the United States

European Safety Standards Test -Highest standard worldwide

Pending "UL " APPROVAL -The FIRE BARRIER II is currently under application and review process of the Underwriters Laboratories. Certification is pending the completion of the process.

    Fire Barrier TE is the only Non-Hazardous, Bio-Degradable and Earth Friendly fire retardant product on the market today. It has been thoroughly tested by an internationally recognized laboratory and has been given a non-toxic rating in the critical areas of eye irritation, skin irritation, and/or oral consumption. (See attached sheet for specs). Fire Barrier is an aqueous solution of inorganic materials, formulated to provide a flame retardant up to 35000 Fahrenheit before ignition. It accomplishes this by incorporating a blocking mechanism, which inhibits the flame penetration to the substrate materials. When properly applied to porous substrates, it provides a Class A fire redundancy, and has no visible effect on the substrates, nor does it change the feel, texture, or serviceability of the substrate. It is easily applied and is not harmful to humans or animal life or the environment. All of the chemicals used in this formula are presently being used in the food processing industry. As a result, Fire Barrier has a non-hazardous base. (Formula TE meets and exceeds UL Requirements.)

    One of the biggest problems with other products on the market is that they are not 100% non-toxic, or non-hazardous, and are very high in cost. Many of the products are derived from old technology and are toxic. For instance, many of our children's clothing are treated with toxic fire retardants. These products require special equipment to do the application, as well as protective clothing that must be worn just to be in contact with the product, because they are hazardous materials. The only protective equipment that we recommend be used to apply this product is goggles to protect your eyes from spills or when you are spraying the product. This is because F.R. 101 has a salt base and salt can burn your eyes and irritate them. Fire Barrier provides everything that the market is looking for, and at an affordable price.

Uses:

• Wood Surfaces*
• Carpet
• Draperies
• Upholstery
• Paper Products
• Cardboard
• Fabrics (cotton, polyester, velour, etc.)**
• All other porous materials

* Fire Barrier's special "Lock In" Inhibitor allows it to continue protecting wood indefinitely.

** Current in-house testing on fabric was put through twenty wash cycles and still maintained the flame spread to a Class A fire redundancy.

    Fire Barrier is available in 5 Gallon and 55 Gallon Drums.

    Fire Suppression Foam: is a 3 dimension foam that is a derivative of Fire Barrier. It contains all the fire redundancy properties, but also extinguishes fires. While it is putting out the fire, it fire retards whatever it touches. It is the only foam on the market today that can do both. It will remain on walls, ceilings and floors for a prolonged period of time.

    While the foam is available in 5 and 55 Drums for large applications, it is also available in a 16 oz. Fire Extinguisher can specially designed for the home, auto, and workshop. This TKO Extinguisher is lightweight, extremely easy to use, and both the foam and the propellant are biodegradable and non-toxic. Most existing home extinguishers are awkward, cumbersome to use and contain either a dry chemical powder or Halon based chemicals (which today cannot be sold). These powders adhere to everything, are difficult to clean up and if not done so immediately after use, will start to corrode and contaminate the surface they are on. 3D foam is simply wiped up and washed down the drain with no adverse effects to the surfaces it comes in contact with. As the foam dissolves it leaves an invisible fire retardant coating to prevent re-ignition.

    A Special Note: Fire retardants are not meant to prevent fire, but to allow additional time for fire fighting agencies to respond to a particular situation, or for a parent to respond to a dangerous situation. Sometimes a matter of seconds is the difference between life and death. The Fire Barrier line can virtually retard an entire building or residence and its contents. Included in the list of things it can be used on are: the structural lumber, sheetrock, insulation, paper, fabrics, carpeting, upholstery, drapes, paneling, paints, stains, wall coverings. Fire Barrier can considerably slow the rate at which a fire will spread, thus allowing appropriate personnel to re-act and help preserve life itself and huge financial losses.

Product Questions and Answers

    Can the fire retardant be used on the outside of a building?

    It is suitable for outdoor use, but it must be dry first. It will not work on asphalt roofing, nor on finished surfaces, like varnish, waxed or flued. Plywood can be treated, but only the surface layer. Tests for flame spread and smoke were done on plywood treated with Fire Barrier by the United States Testing Co., and received a "Class B" rating. Fire Barrier will work on cedar shake or wood shingles, but is not recommended, as it takes away some of the wood's ability to expand and seal the roof. Fire Barrier must be applied to the substrate. It does not work on finished surfaces.

What are some benefits of the foam?

    Foam is excellent on any fire that water will not put out, for example oil and gasoline fires. Foam will stick to a vertical surface and stay in place longer, rather than running off and away. Foam also will expand the amount of water applied up to ten times (ie: 10,000 gallons of water can become 50,000 to 100,000 gallons). There is less water damage and faster knock down. This foam is the only "Class A" and "Class B" foam.

What is the shelf life of the product?

    The product has a known shelf life of 20 years. (It is probably longer than that, but that is as long as any has been around).

Fire Barrier Review

    Fire Barrier II is a retardant coating which can be applied to porous materials - such as almost all fabrics, textiles and all unfinished wood products - to achieve a Class A fire spread rating. Wood products will retain structural and aesthetic characteristics. Fire retardancy is expected to last for two years when exposed to the elements and unlimited time when protected. When weatherproofed, the product may be considered for longer-term exterior as well as interior applications. Fabrics retain softness when treated and will retain fire retardancy with as much as 20 washings. Because Fire Barrier II forms a char barrier to exclude oxygen, it is even effective on synthetic fibers.

    Application is easily performed using a non-pressurized sprayer, with a brush or by dipping because the viscosity is the same as water. Coverage varies depending on the porosity of the material, but is generally 230 sq. ft. per gallon.

    There are no storage or handling restrictions. There is also no limitation to shelf life. (The product has been stored 7 years without change in performance or other characteristics.)

    FR101 is formulated using a proprietary blend of non-hazardous inorganic salts, surfactants and water. No chemical is listed under SARA Title II and all ingredients are generally assumed safe. In fact, all chemicals used in the formulas as presently used in the food processing industry. No chemicals are known to react with FR101sch allows for over-coatings and mixtures.

Background of Fire Retardant Coatings

    Fire retardant coatings are formulated to delay ignition and reduce spread of flame along a surface. The first patent was issued to Albi in 1948, making fire retardant coatings a relatively new industry.

    Combustible interior finishes have historically been a major factor in the high death tolls due to fire - due to role of finishes and furnishings in flame spread and flash over. For example, in 1988 NFPA reported 67% of all fires are started on decorative materials -upholstery, drapes, carpeting, wall coverings and mattresses and on exposed timbers in attics, basements and garages.

    The ability of the coating to slow the rate of flame spread measured by ASTM 84, called the Steiner Tunnel Test (also known as NFPA 255 and UL723). Fire resistant coatings are also evaluated by ASTM El 19 to determine period of resistance to a standard exposure before the first critical point in behavior is observed.

Growth Potential of Fire Retardant Coatings Industry

    The largest marketplace is those facilities and structures that are already existing, which are regulated by codes and standards. Typically, these facilities include all residential structures, such as houses, camps, cottages and mobile homes, as well as existing commercial and public structures such as hospitals, hotels, health care facilities, prisons and educational facilities.

Total Market Estimates

    SRI reports world flame retardant market is $1.2 billion per year. US has 40% or $450-$550 million. 28% of the world flame retardant market is in West Europe, 22% in Japan and 10% in the rest of the Far East Growth of this market is forecasted by SRI at 8%/year throughout the 1990's.

    Four end markets comprise the primary uses for flame retardant chemicals: plastics, textiles, paint for wood/paper and paint/coatings. Plastics appear to be the fastest growing and most profitable market (BCC).

    The estimated US consumption by end use of flame retardant chemicals shows that plastics comprises 82% of the total end use (by pounds) and totals 512.3 pounds of chemical. Wood/paper, paint/coatings and textiles together form the remaining 21% of the consumption. This dominance by plastics is reflected in total market size with 80% of the market size being dedicated to plastics with a total of $454.4 million in 1995 and $528 million in 1998. Again, wood/paper, paint/coatings and textiles together form the remaining 20% of the total US market, which is estimated at $567 million in 1995.

Phosphorus-Based Flame Retardant Market

    Within the large market of plastics as an end-use, phosphorus-based chemicals are used in fire protection in acrylics, nylons, polyesters, polyurethane, styrene and FVC. Phosphorus-based flame retardant chemicals are not used in epoxies, phenolics, polycarbonates, polyethylenes and polypropylenes.

Estimated Use of Phosphorus-based Flame Retardant Chemicals

• Acrylics 20% phosphorus-based
• Polyurethane 25%
• Nylons 15%
• FVC 50%
• Polyesters 20%
• Styrene 10%

    Published reports of phosphorus-based flame retardant consumption are not available. However, BCC estimates 60 million pounds of US phosphorus will be used in production of phosphorus-based flame retardant chemicals in 1993. Pricing of phosphorus-based flame retardants varies widely. Industry trends are expected to be tied to the less expensive grades. BCC estimates the average price per pound of all phosphorus-based flame retardants is $1.20/pound or a 1993 market size of $72 Million.

    Within phosphorus-based flame retardant chemicals, plastics comprises 66% of the end use at 44 million pounds/year' in 1995. Wood/paper comprises 20% of the end uses and totals 13.1 million pounds/year in 1995. Paint/coatings and textiles comprises 10% and 5%, respectively, totaling 6.6 million pounds/year and 3.0 million pounds/year in 1995, respectively (BCC).

    BCC believes "phosphorus-based flame retardants are believed to be ready to penetrate a broader market range than has traditionally been the case". This position is largely, in part, because of the reduced environmental impact from its manufacture, processing and use. Because smoke from phosphorus-based flame retardant is less dense than those, which use halon, phosphorus-based flame retardants are preferred. Increasing interest in reducing smoke obscuration and corrosively is helping to drive this market and create opportunities for phosphorus additives in addition, phosphorus-based flame retardants do not require anti-oxide, which is difficult to handle and has caused health and safety concerns.

    The BCC report on flame retardant chemicals projects a 7% increase in growth from 1993 to 1998 for the use of phosphorus-based chemicals in plastics and a 5% growth in all other end uses, averaging a 6% growth for the phosphorus-based flame retardant industry.

    The previously reported consumption translates into a 1995 market size of $53.3 million in plastics, $18.1 million in wood/paper, $7.9 million in paint/coatings and $4.0 million in textiles. The 7% and 5% growth in plastics and other end uses, respectively, result in a 1998 market of $64.4 million in plastics as an end use, $18.1 million in wood/paper, $9.0 million in paint/coatings and $4.5 million in textiles as end uses.

    BCC estimates that new non-halogenated phosphorus-based flame retardants will drive a healthy 6% annual increase in consumption through 1998, resulting in consumption of 80 million pounds in 1998 for a marked to $96 million.

Paint / Coatings Market

    Of the flame retardant market, the paint and coatings portion of the market is estimated by the National Paint and Coatings Association as a billion gallon/year industry. According to Kenneth Zacharias, Local Association Liaison, National Paint and Coatings Association, "the current breakdown is 46% trade sales, 38% product finishes and 16% special purpose coatings...and only a fraction (less than 1%) represents the fire retardant market." These figures translate into 1.6 million gallons/year production of fire retardant coating. BCC reported flame retardancy has not been an urgent topic in the paint/coatings industry recently because of severe pressure to remove volatile organic compounds and other environmental sensitive materials from their formulations.

    Kenneth Zacharias typifies the paint industry as mature, slow growth industry, one which "maintained a steady rate of increase, slightly above that recorded by the national economy" (from Fire Retardant Coatings - Market and Industry Perspective, in the Handbook of Fire Retardant Coatings and Fire Testing Services, 1990).

Toxicity Issues Relevant to Fire Barrier II

    One of the advantages of Fire Barrier II is the lack of toxic chemicals in its formulation, because the trend to increasing reporting and regulations of chemicals is clear. The Wall Street Journal (Jan. 7, 1994) noted that the Environmental Protection Agency proposed doubling the number of chemicals whose release into the water or air must be reported to the agency by manufacturers - from 320 chemicals up 313 to 633 chemicals. The data which results from such reporting have been a significant prod to industry to reduce emissions, serving 5 an "eye opener to lots of CEO's who are embarrassed by the publicity the findings receive" according to Carol Browner, EPA Administrator. In addition, the EPA planned to propose a regulation, which expands the number of industrial sectors that must report to the toxic release inventory to include utilities, wholesale distributors and mining concerns.

    The Fire Retardant Chemicals Association newsletter (March 1994) reported that EPA was seeking congressional authorization to study the elimination of chlorine's uses, to minimize its use in pulp and paper manufacture, drinking water and groundwater treatments, plastics and solvents. While there was a broad-based business community campaign in opposition, environmental activists have a similar effort in support of chlorine elimination.

    The New York Times (March 9, 1993) noted that "the earnings of Smokestack America seem likely to face new setbacks because of future liabilities for cleaning up the environment, according to a Price Waterhouse survey". The survey of manufacturing and public utilities found that 62% had material and undisclosed environmental liabilities. This suggests that the environmental costs have yet to be passed through the financial statements of numerous publicly traded companies. Senior staff at Price Waterhouse predict "the environmental issues will not have as broad or sweeping an impact on earnings and equity as health-care cost standards, but it could be troublesome for companies with inherently dirty processes and time bombs in the form of old waste disposal sites".

    Several major components of fire retardant chemicals are coming under close scrutiny. Bromine is one of those components. The National Toxicology Program at Research Triangle Park noted that carcinogenic activity was clear when adults were fed polybrominated biohcavis: Firemaster PP- 1. (Technical Report on the Perinatal Toxicology and Carcinogenesis Studies of Polybrominated Biohcavis, Firemaster PP-i (Aug.93). According to Karen Lindsay, in the Feb.94 issue of Modern Plastics, efforts to restrict some brominated additives are forcing several manufacturers to consider using "non-controversial" flame suppressants. The point-of-view among end users is that the most reasonable solutions are a shift to non-scrutinized non-PBOF and bromine-free additive systems. This view of not universal, however. Ethyl, for example, produced additives with some of the above (from Bromine Debate Compels a Re-examination of Flame-retardant Systems).

    Jan Schut reports in Plastic World, Mar 95, (How Green is your Flame Retardant?) that the health and environmental issues related to the use of the polybrominated flame retardants are still the main concern among European countries and affect the marketing of some US products. There is difficulty in finding replacements exhibiting or even exceeding the performance of brominated flame retardants and the ways to process these replacements. Among those considered as alternatives are phosphorus-metal hydrate and nitrogen-based flame retardants. The potential of silicon flame retardants is also being investigated.

    Environmental, health and toxicity issues are important to the flame retardant business and are likely to increase their influence on the industry's direction by acting to push growth to less toxic formulations. For example, EPA required manufacturers of eight brominated flame retardants to develop analytical methods for determination of ultra trace levels of polybrominated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PBDD) and polybrominated dibenzofurans (PBDF) in commercial products and to report test results of sampled products to EPA. This is the result of toxicology studies pointing to adverse effects of the chemicals. As a result of the testing requirements and controversy regarding the toxicity and of the smoke, environmental concerns drive consumers away from brominated flame retardants and to less controversial compounds (BCC report).

    Tests similar to those required for brominated flame retardants are required for chlorinated chemicals. Germany will limit the PBDF and PBDD in a 3-year phase-out period. Chlorine-based flame retardants are also limited by environmental concerns because of their halogenated hydrocarbon status and because of concerns regarding smoke toxicity (BCC report).

Codes Relating to Fire Retardant Coatings

    Regulations and standards will continue to drive the flame retardant industry. Regulations regarding interior finishes and treatments of furniture are particularly relevant.

    Fire retardant coatings are specified in codes under Fire Performance of Materials. Interior finishes are prescribed under this heading. By definition all coatings may be viewed as an interior finish. BOCA defines an interior finish as including all wainscoting and paneling or other finish applied structurally or for acoustical treatment, insulation, decoration or similar purpose. Each code has a table, which shows the class of finish materials acceptable in different occupancies.

    Construction types within the Life Safety Code are regulated by NFPA 220, Standard on Types of Building Construction, NFPA 703, Fire Retardant Impregnated Wood and Fire Retardant Coatings for Building Materials address interior materials. The California State Fire Marshal also approved fire retardant coatings (Reg. No. C-44). Tests are often conducted via ASTM-84. Fire retardancy of materials may be specified in a variety of places within model building codes developed by BOCA (Building Officials and Code Administrators) and by ICBO (International Conference of Building Officials #2900, for example in such places as Fire Performance of Materials, Material Properties, Existing or Renovated Buildings. Under most conditions, exposed materials such as wall coverings and ceilings used in commercial buildings are required by the various building codes to be a Class A material.

    A New York State regulation requires floor and wall coatings to be tested for toxicity of their combustion products. Requirements for smoke are typically limited by the building codes to materials such as foam plastic and materials used within air handling spaces.

    Exterior materials are addressed by NFPA 299 Protection of Life and Property from Wildfire and numerous state and local codes such as California State Public Resources Code 4291.

    The California Bureau of Home Furnishings (CBHM) released Technical 116, 117 Bulletins (also known as TB 116, 117) which require testing of furniture cushioning materials against cigarette ignition. TB 121 tests for ignition of mattresses in penal institutions, jails and prisons. This is often used for public facilities, which include health care facilities, old age convalescent board and care homes, college dormitories and residence halls. TB 129, the first draft of a new flammability standard for mattresses used in public buildings. The American Society for Testing and Materials (A5Th4 is considering a generic version of TB 129. TB 129 is expected to gain acceptance and approval in the next 3-5 years (Gordan Damant and Said Nerbakhsh, Developments of Furnishing Flammability Standards for Public Buildings and Private Residences, undated).

    TB 133 outlines a series of comprehensive burn testing procedures that include smoldering/char ignition, full--flame ignition and "intentional" burn testing for such occupancies as hotels, stadiums, hospitals and auditoriums. TB 133 is now mandatory in California and several other states for specific public buildings. The National Association of State Fire Marshals believes TB 133 is likely to be the de-facto national standard. Because this test incorporates smoke requirements, it is a driving force behind the move away from halogenated flame retardants.

    The Federal Aviation Administration regulations FAR 25.853 regulates materials used in compartment interiors of all passenger aircraft. However, no materials currently comply with the regulations. The international regulatory setting affects the flame retardant industry in the US. The UK regulates furniture through 1988 legislation which requires upholstered furniture meet both open flame and smoldering ignition standards. This requirement also applies to used furniture. Most of the new flame retardant product introductions that have occurred recently stem from the UK government's 1988 decision to legislate for improved fire performance of domestic furniture (from Flame Retardants Cooling Down as Europe Ponders Regulatory Action by David Reed in Feb-Mar 1995 issue of Urethane Technology).

    The European Upholstered Furniture Directive has been in a state of flux. The initial draft directive was withdrawn in Feb 1993, not reinstated as of March 1994. However, the research program done by an 11-partner consortium was completed in 1995. The German Dioxin Ordinance prohibits halogenated flame retardants within Germany; Holland has the same prohibition. As a result of environmental issues, environmentally friendly resins which do not contain halogenated chemicals are increasing in number and volume in the world plastic market (from Synergists For Flame Retardant Phosphate Esters by Seong-Jun Kim and Young Sun Park in ANTEC 95).

    Since the promulgation of the UK and European regulations, there has been pressure for some sort of harmonization of the requirements within the European community. Debates on the effectiveness of the UK approach have slowed down the market process at creating a harmonized European directive. Since the flame retardant market tends to strongly reflect national regulatory requirements, developments in the technical area have been accordingly slow (from Flame Retardants Cooling Down as Europe Ponders Regulatory Action by David Reed in Feb-Mar 1995 issue of Urethane Technology).

    In contrast, Arie Hochberg and Joan Glogosvsky report in "Key Properties of FR Engineering Thermoplastics for Demanding Applications" (ANTC95) that the last few years the flame retardant manufacturers introduced many new and effective additives for the plastic industry. While there are many reasons for the proliferation of the flame retardant compounds, a major driver is the concern about toxicity of the chemicals used in the retardant. The need to replace DBDO (low molecular weight brominated flame retardant additive) due to the new European laws is an example of one of these reasons.

    Lastly, deterioration of structural integrity because of chemicals in the flame retardant may cause a shift to those products which can maintain product strength. Time magazine, April 23, 1990 noted that a fire-resistant plywood used in nearly 1 million roofs east of Mississippi had to be replaced because sun triggered a chemical reaction which cause the roofs to blacken, decay and eventually collapse. Further, the Technical Supports Services Program of Ontario Ministry of Housing concluded through an evaluation of the long4erm effect of fire retardant chemicals on the structural integrity of wood members? that many products were not suitable for Ontario's climate and suggested limitations of the use (from Study on Fire-treated Wood Assembly: Potential deterioration of Assembly Elements by I. Ibrosvi).

Competition in Fire Retardant Coatings

    According to BCC, the major producers of flame retardant chemicals are characterized as large companies which produce many products and have many industries. They typically have annual sales in excess of a billion dollars. While some of these producers have decreased their investment in flame retardant chemicals, others are increasing their commitment to the business. Since entrance barriers are not high, some large companies are integrating "backwards" into production of the flame retardant chemicals themselves. New players in the market will generally seek to occupy specific niches and specialize. Nineteen companies are listed as Fire Retardant Coating Companies in the Handbook of Fire Retardant Coatings and Fire Testing Services.

    For every new product, the status quo seems to be the biggest competition. Alumina trihydrate (ATH) comprises almost 1/2 the consumption of flame retardant chemicals by pounds. The estimated US market size and growth by phosphorus-based flame retardant chemicals is estimated at $81 million in 1995, $96 million in 1998. These figures are from a total market size of flame retardant chemicals of $513 million in 1993, $567 million in 1995 and $658 million in 1998.

    BCC estimates that seven manufacturers produce 95% of the phosphorus-based flame retardants used in the US. Both Akzo and Albright ; Wilson produce 30% of the US market. FMC, Himont and Hoechst Celanese each produce 15%. Great Lakes and Monsanto each produce 5% of the US market. Fire retardant competitors are manufacturers of phosphorus-based and water-based fire retardants from Monsanto and Dupont, firms which are quite large and very chemically diversified. Competition has marketed their fire retardants through licensed lumber treatment centers strategically located throughout North America according to demographics and geographics.

    There is very limited competition in the fire retardant industry within the wood/paper market for existing structures as well as new construction. It includes materials such as dimensional lumber, plywood, particleboard, OOSB board and cedar shake shingles. The market has been dominated by five main competitors: Koppers, PPG, Hoover, Osmoes and Arnox. All use the pressure or vacuum impregnation process. These processes have been determined to have strength loss, toxicity and corrosion problems.

    A few new products have been promoted through the popular press.

    Business Week (Dec.17 1990) reported that Ival O'Salyer of University of Dayton Research Institute invented a fire fighting material which forms a protective thermal insulating barrier when sprayed on the roof of house. The barrier may be washed away "harmlessly" with water. The material contains mono ammonium phosphates, sugar, urea??? and a blowing agent. The article notes the product was developed under contract with the US Navy; US Air Force. Several companies are negotiating to commercialize the products the material can be used with.

    Business Week (Nov.27 1989) notes that fire-retardant materials save lives by giving people more time to escape. However, they acknowledge that with most fire-retardant treatments, the more fire-resistant they are, the more they produce deadly smoke. No Fire, a new paint produced by Transaction Security Inc. in Upper Saddle River, NJ promises an unusually long-lasting fire barrier via an intumescent coating. No Fire contains ceramic fibers to prolong the coating's ability to withstand flames. The treatment is said to shield plastics, wood up to an hour. The product is licensed to Greyhouse Electronics, Inc. in Toms River, NJ.

    The Aviation Week and Space Technologies (July 24, 1995) reported that currently the only protection against compartment fires is from hand-held extinguishers. Investigation into the use of kevlar blankets with silicone coating is ongoing as a fire retardant.

    Despite the above articles, no other company currently makes a coating which is as easy to apply with a long shelf-life, ease of storage, non-toxic and treats both wood and fabric. No other non-toxic non-stiffening fabric treatments is listed in the Handbook of Fire Retardant Coatings and Fire Testing Services. The following companies produce products which may be considered competition:

1. American Varrag Company. Inc. (Ridgefiled, NJ) makes EXOLIT ALBERT-DS Clear and DS1 1-Clear which are foam forming fire retardant coatings for wood, hardboard, cellulose board and other wood derivatives and plastics. The product can be applied by brush, roller or spray but must be heated to 110-150 degrees F. to spray. Coverage is 100-150 sq. ft. per gallon. Results of ASTM is Flame Spread 20, Fuel Contributed 10 and Smoke Developed 10. No information on toxicity or flash point. The product is effective but not durable, sugar-based and requires protective coating for best results.

2. Barnard Products. Inc. (Covina, CA) makes 2 clear penetrating Fire Retardant Preservatives. Bar Flame is 606G is for use on unsealed shingles, shakes, siding, telephone poles and posts. Bar Flame 606H is to be applied to unsealed rough sawn wood cork or interior surfaces porous enough to penetrate. Only meets Class II fire spread rating.

3. Fiber Materials. Inc. (Biddeford, ME) makes FR203, FR304, an off-white Water-Based fabric and carpet latex coating based on vinyl chloride acetate latex. UL ratings, fire spread rates and toxicity information are not available.

4. Fire Research Laboratories (Albuquerque, NM) makes several products. FireLab Stilcoat 2000 is a semi-clear or translucent coating for roof timbers, floors, rafters, support members, on kitchen cabinets, dividing walls around space heaters, furnaces and heating plants, compartmented living areas, in corridors, stairwells and building exits. It is a acrylic modified vinyl acetate latex intumescent coating for fire retarding and heat insulating. It is to be applied 2 coats each 4.5 to 4.8 mil thickness, with 275-350 sq. ft. per gallon per coat. Class A rating achieved with 150 sq. ft./gal. Flame spread 15, smoke development 10.

    Firelab Fabric Treatment is aimed at the decorative trade and fabric industry. Natural and synthetic textile materials, leaving treated fabrics with no stiffness and no apparent residue. The coating does, however, require 2 coats, then 1-2 weeks drying time for final finish. Synthetic fabrics requires about twice as much as natural fibers. 1 gallon effectively treats 300 sq. ft. of 8 oz/yd cotton fabric. The product is applied by dipping or spraying. Spray equipment should be equipped with a stainless steel or plastic reservoir and dipping vats should be constructed from plastic or stainless steel. While toxicity information is not available, above instructions imply the product reacts with metals. While the product UL listing and Flame Spread Rating is not available it is approved by the California Fire Marshal.

    FireLab Wood Saturant is a clear, odorless, non-toxic fire retardant resin for unsealed wood. This product can be painted, varnished and stained just like natural wood, applied at two coats at 200 sq. ft. per gallon over coat. Application is done via spray, roller or brush. Spray application requires a feather-pattern nozzle with 400-1200 psi pressure at the tip. Allow 1-3 hrs drying between coats, dry to a complete finish in 48 hrs. FireLab Shingle Safe is a clear water-based fire retardant for use on wood shakes and shingles. Shingle Safe is applied on one coat because the treatment seals the shingles and prevents further absorption. Coverage is 50 - 100 sq. ft./gallon applied with high or low pressure spray equipment. UL listings and Flame Spread Ratings are not available but FireLab products are approved by the California State Fire Marshal.

5. Flame Control Coatings. Inc.(Niagara Falls, NY) makes Flame Control No.10 as a clear fire retardant penetrating wood treatment recommended for exterior use on previously treated cedar shakes and shingles. Properly treated wood will char but not support combustion. Coverage is 150 sq. ft. in 2 coats at application rate of 300 sq. ft./gallon via brush, spray or dipping. Allow 24-48 hrs. between coats. Clean-up must be done with xydol, toulene, Aromatic 100. Performance is Class II, with Flame Spread Rate of 35, Smoke Developed 690 and Fuel Contributed 10. (Used under NFPA 703, Section 2-2.1.3 Class B). The product contains combustible or flammable solvents. Keep away from heat, sparks and flame. Avoid prolonged contact with skin. Avoid breathing vapors or spray mist. Flame Control No.10 also need Flame Control 40 to achieve Class A rating.

    Flame Control No.5 which is an exterior fabric flame retarder for fabric which may be exposed to weather such as welding curtains, canopies, dividers, awnings and tents. Coverage is 450 oz. of cotton duck per gallon by spray, brush or dipping. Cleaning must be done with xydol or (Exxon) Aromatic SC-100 solvent. UL listings and Flame Spread rates are not available. (Used under NFPA 701075). The product contains combustible or flammable solvents. Keep away from heat, sparks and flame. Avoid prolonged contact with skin. Avoid breathing vapors or spray mist.

6. Flame Stop. Inc. (Roanoke, TX) makes Flame Stopl, which is a biodegradable, colorless retardant used on any type of wood or porous material. Recommended for use on interior application on all absorptive materials such as drapes, wallpaper canvas, carpets, bedding, clothing, wood decor, furniture, cotton muslin, paper/straw, most synthetics, redwood cedar, douglas fir. This product can be applied with a hand sprayer or by dipping, brushing or adding to the laundry cycle. Allow 6-8 his. for drying. Performance is Class II, with Flame Spread Rate of 35, Spoke Developed 15. Meets Interim Fed. Specs TTP 001932 GSA-F55, US Testing Co., Inc. Class B., UL 723, NFPA 703, UBC 2, NFPA 101 and 255, ASTM E-84 (Class B), Fabric Testing - California Title 19 and NFPA 701.

    Application is 200 sq. ft./gallon. Flame Stop II is used both indoors and outdoors, penetrates wood surfaces. It can also be applied to fabrics used for exterior purposes such as awnings. Application is 125 sq. ft./gal. This product is applied by spray, brush or roll application. Allow 6-8 hrs. for drying. Performance is Flame Spread Rate of 25, Smoke Developed 100. Meets US Testing Co., Inc. Class A, UL 723, NFPA 703, UBC Class II rating, NFPA 10) and 255, ASTM E84 (Class B).

7. FlamOrt Chemical Company (San Francisco, CA) makes Flamort WC, which is a latex white coating to be used on unfinished interior wood, plywood acoustical board, insulation board, cellulose board, fiberboard, excelsior, wood shavings and paper. It is available in ready-to-use solutions or as dry compound to be dissolved in water. It can be used in office buildings, hospitals, nursing homes, theaters, where fire hazards are to be considered in specifications. For wood, coverage is 110 sq. ft./gal., for paper - 400 sq. ft./gal., for corrugated paper board coverage is 300 sq. ft./gal. The product flakes after applications. Flame Spread Rates are not available but they are classified by Underwriters Laboratories, Approved by California State Fire Marshal (Reg. No. C-44) and 2280-002.1, International Conference of Building Officials #2900, Government of District of Columbia, City of Los Angeles Report #23922, City of New York Board of Standards and Appeals #684-63-SM, Building Code Committee, Dayton, OH, City of Hartford, CN and City and County of Denver, CO. While chemical components are not available, probably contains halogens because another product is claimed as halogen-free.

    They also make Flamord No.6-3 Halogen-Free Coating is clear, for use on interior unfinished wood. It does not contain Chlorine, bromine or sulfur compounds. The wood can be stained or varnished after treatment. Coverage and application methods and Flame Spread Rates are not listed. Flamort No.6-3 meets City of Los Angeles Report No. 23922 and California Fire Marshal (Reg. No. C-4-16).

8. Ocean Coatings. Inc. (Savannah, GA) makes a fabric retardant OceanFFR22 which has a shelf life of 12 months. fabrics are to be dipped for 15 minutes then air dried. Clean-up is with (Exxon) Aromatic 100 or Xydol. Recoat every 2 yrs. Increasing stiffness will be noted in fabric. Dry cleaning is not recommended. Flash point is 105 degrees F. UL listing and Flame Spread Ratings are not available but meets ASTM-D-626-41T (treated specimens retained fire resistance after 2 wks. immersion). For handling eliminate ignition source. Avoid heat, sparks, Flames. Store in cool place. Avoid prolonged breathing of vapors. Keep container closed.

Conclusion Regarding KS Fire Retardant Coating

    KS is an extremely useful product which has great promise to capture a large portion of the fire retardant coatings market I would recommend and have recommended use of the product to several clients. This product is worthy of investment.

    The consumer-cased market has not been successfully filled, perhaps because of toxicity issues or ease of application or because of deleterious effects of the substrate. KS has overcome those limitations so is a very desirable product to the direct consumer for protection of children's clothing and interior coverings, Christmas trees and areas around fireplaces and stoves. Application by homeowners of decks and exposed wood is another market which FR10KS dominate because of its effectiveness, ease of application, cost and non-toxicity. Local regulations are increasingly stringent about exterior exposed woods and retro-fitting existing structures is likely to be required in the near future.

    Large commercial applications may form the bulk of sales. However, because of millions of square feet being constructed which require fire retardant interiors. Again, the lack of toxic chemicals makes retrofitting ideal for hospitals and nursing homes, child care facilities and other high occupancy buildings. Ease of application drastically reduces overall costs to the consumer of making interiors fire retardant.

    Retrofitting can make substantial sales to developers which wish to construct with wood sidings. Siding is commonly required to be non-combustible, which has limited architectural retrofitting can allow a greater range of designs, which is likely to foster home sales.

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