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how thin film intumescents work

Intumescents are effective for this use because of their fire retardant properties, specifically the fact that when exposed to heat it expands to form a protective char. By forming a thick protective char, thin film intumescents are able to to protect stuructural steel columns and beams from the intense heat of the flame, thus protecting the integrity of the steel.

For an intumescent to function properly, it relies on the interaction of three specific components which it is made up of:

  1. Carbon Supplier: Polyols as starch, pentaerythritol
  2. Acid Source: Ammonium polyphosphate
  3. Expanding Agent: Melamine

In the case of thin-fil intumescents, these components are bound within either a in a solvent or waterborne polymeric binder*. Other components are added to improve the paint properties and enable easy application, enhance build and achieve faster drying.

 

the intumescent process

  • The heat begins to soften the polymeric binder.
  • The heat also causes a release of an organic acid (from the Ammonia Polyphosphate)
  • Carbonisation of the polyols begins to take place
  • Gas produced through the decomposition of the blowing agent (melamine), swelling the molten mixture.
  • The final stage is solidification of the foamed char, through a cross-linking reaction, to maintain the insulation.

* Remedial Building Services Australia uses water based intumescents which are less hazardous and better for the environment

 

A treated steel member prior to Fire testing Fire testing a treated steel member Conclusion of Fire testing with beam still in tact

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Remedial Attend QME

Remedial Building Services are currently exhibiting at the Quuensland Mining Exhibition being hosted in Mackay. As one of the largest exhibitions in the industry this is your chance to visit us to learn more about our full range of services.

We hope to see you there July 27 - july 29, 2010

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