This overview discusses the rationale for flame retardancy in textiles, especially in applications such as children's nightwear and commercial passenger vehicles, and how--unlike other desirable fabric properties like water repellency--flame retardant properties are generally governed by legislation or regulation. The basic chemical affects of thermal exposure on a variety of synthetic fibers are discussed, and following chapters provide in-depth information about regulatory and testing requirements, and about strategies currently in use to impart flame retardancy to fabrics. Environmental and sustainability issues are addressed, in particular the roles of formaldehyde and halogens. The potentials of nanotechnology for creating new and environmentally sustainable solutions are discussed in the last two chapters. Annotation ©2014 Ringgold, Inc., Portland, OR (protoview.com)
