What is intumescent material?

Intumescent materials are materials that reduce the spread of flames and heat projection through cavities and escape routes. These materials contain elements which react to heat and flames by expanding in thickness many times its original size, so much so that it is capable of crushing pipes and other services to compartmentalise fire risk areas. Many intumescent products produce a soft carbonaceous char which acts as an insulating and protective layer between the fire and the substrate. Intumescent materials also produce water vapour which aids temperature control to prevent the transfer of heat throughout substrates.

Why are intumescent materials important? 

Intumescent materials are vitally important to our modern day society. With the advancements of technology being introduced to our homes, places of work, areas of leisure and communal spaces with high occupancy the risk of fires is evermore increasing. Intumescent materials are a means to reduce loss and protect the lives of those within our communities. There are many different forms in which intumescent materials can take and many go unnoticed as passive fire protection is not only used to protect but also to maintain natural aesthetics of our cultures and architecture. 

Intumescent materials are the basis of which passive fire protection was created, where components are in place to reduce the initial damage and destruction of fires so that a buildings structure stays in tact to allow people can escape and provide additional time for fire services to arrive. The implementation of passive fire protection reduces disasters such as Grenfell from reoccurring. However, simply having these fire protection measures aren't enough. It must be ensured that these products are applied by a competent and well trained individual who holds the appropriate documentation and insurances to apply these products professionally. Each intumescent product must adhere to the British Standard for fire protection meaning not only does the product have to reach the standard but so does the application. Poor application results in poor performance regardless of the quality of goods, so please take this into consideration before purchasing any passive fire protection products.