Abstract
This chapter reviews the current knowledge of the processes involved in the combustion behaviour of textiles and approaches to their flame retardant protection. Synthetic fibre-forming polymers, both thermoplastic and high temperature resistant, as well as naturally occurring fibre types are discussed. The combustion process is described with reference to the thermal stability, degradation and oxidative degradation various individual polymer types. The significance of textile structure is considered with respect to the textile flammability. The mechanisms of the different flame retardant systems applied to various textiles are discussed as well as the more recent application of nano-composites. Finally, a prediction of potential future developments is presented.