Fire Resistance and Flame Retardant Properties of Elastomeric Foam (Rubber-Plastic Boards)

Fire Resistance and Flame Retardant Properties of Elastomeric Foam (Rubber-Plastic Boards)

Elastomeric foam insulation is engineered with advanced fire safety features, making it a reliable choice for applications requiring flame resistance. Below is a detailed analysis of its key fire performance characteristics.

1. Flame Retardant Composition

Halogen-Free Formulations
Modern elastomeric foam avoids toxic halogens (chlorine/bromine), using instead:

Aluminum trihydrate (ATH) or magnesium hydroxide as smoke suppressants

Phosphorus-based flame retardants for char formation

Self-Extinguishing Properties
Passes vertical burn tests (ASTM D3801) with:

Flame spread ≤25 (ASTM E84)

Automatic extinguishment within 3 seconds after flame removal

2. Critical Fire Performance Metrics

Fire Classification

Class B1 per GB 8624 (China)

Euroclass B-s1,d0 per EN 13501-1 (Europe)

ASTM E84 Class A (North America)

Smoke & Toxicity Control

Smoke density ≤50 (ASTM E662)

Toxicity index meets IMO FTP Code for marine applications

3. Thermal Barrier Effects

High Limiting Oxygen Index (LOI ≥28%)
Requires concentrated oxygen environments to sustain combustion

Char Formation
Develops protective carbonized layer at 300-400°C, slowing heat transfer

4. Industry-Specific Compliance

Construction
Approved for:

High-rise buildings (per GB 50016)

Concealed spaces (UL 723 rated)

Industrial

Oil/gas facilities (API 2218 compliant)

Marine engineering (IMO Resolution MSC.307(88))

5. Failure Prevention in Fire Scenarios

Delayed Flashover
Reduces peak heat release rate by 40% vs. non-treated foams

Minimal Melt Dripping
Prevents secondary fire ignition

6. Verification & Testing Protocols

Large-Scale Tests

SBI (Single Burning Item) EN 13823

Room corner test (NFPA 286)

Material Analysis

TGA (Thermogravimetric Analysis) for decomposition behavior

Cone calorimetry (ISO 5660) for heat release rate

Best Practice Applications

HVAC Ducts

Fire-rated sleeves at wall penetrations

Electrical Conduits

Insulation for cable trays in risk zones

Offshore Platforms

Piping insulation with enhanced smoke suppression

For nuclear or aerospace applications, specify ceramic-fiber reinforced specialty grades with LOI >35%.