Flame‐retardant finishing of textiles

Abstract The need for flame‐retardant finishing of textiles is examined in the context of the hazards of textile flammability, associated legislation and procedures for assessing textile burning behaviour. The functions of flame‐retardant finishes and durable finishes developed specifically for cellulose, wool and man‐made fibres are described in depth. Multipurpose finishes for both cellulose and wool textiles in which flame retardancy is only one property conferred on the textile are examined. Fibre blends present a particular problem and special attention is paid to discussing those finishes applied to polyester/cotton blended fabrics. The laundering behaviour and consequent finish durability are reviewed. In addition, the effects that applying flame‐retardant finishes have on textile properties and performance are considered. Recent developments in methods used to apply flame‐retardant finishes are outlined