Make fabrics flame retardant and washable

There are different ways to make fabrics flame retardant and washable, depending on the type and composition of the fabric. Some fabrics, such as polyester, are inherently flame resistant, while others, such as cotton, need to be treated with chemicals to achieve the same effect.

Flame retardant Additives

You can use a homemade solution of borax, boric acid, and water to soak the fabric and then let it dry. This will create a fire-retardant coating on the fabric that can withstand washing.

You can buy a commercial fire-retardant spray or liquid and apply it to the fabric according to the instructions. Some of these products are washable, while others need to be reapplied after washing.

You can use a special coating technique that involves a flame-retardant polymer and a cross-linking agent. This method can create a durable and washable flame-retardant fabric that can resist high temperatures.

You can also look for fabrics that are certified as fire-retardant by international standards. These fabrics are often made of 100% polyester and have undergone rigorous testing to ensure their safety and quality. They are also easy to wash and maintain.

VAE can be the washable binding additive

To hold flame retardant additives and pigment to textiles, crosslinking VAE polymers are available. Te advantages of VAE dispersions can be:

• Good compability with all kind of additives (good sollubility)
• VAE has a low flammability index. Unlike Styrene-based polymers, VAE is not actively promoting the flames. (Depending on final test, composition, formulation). For example, this test with Carpet indicates the difference. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xJ6zcCkeKwU
• LOW VOC
• Stable polymer, no discoloring (yellowing)