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Details of Grant 

EPSRC Reference: GR/S24367/01
Title: Nanocomposite Fire Retardants for Synthetic Fibres
Principal Investigator: Kandola, Professor B
Other Investigators:
Horrocks, Professor AR
Researcher Co-Investigators:
Project Partners:
Acordis Ltd Rhodia Unifi Tye Ltd
Department: Faculty of Technology
Organisation: University of Bolton
Scheme: Standard Research (Pre-FEC)
Starts: 01 December 2003 Ends: 28 February 2007 Value (£): 150,388
EPSRC Research Topic Classifications:
Materials Characterisation Materials Processing
EPSRC Industrial Sector Classifications:
Manufacturing Chemicals
Related Grants:
GR/S24374/01 GR/S24350/01
Panel History:  
Summary on Grant Application Form
Synthetic fibres continue to be much more flammable than their natural counterparts and are difficult to fire retard, presenting a major fire hazard. Natural fibres have a tendency to char formation, whereas synthetics have low or zero char-promoting character. The barrier layer and char forming properties of nanocomposites uniquely promises to improve fire resistance of synthetic fibres, while enhancing physical and mechanical properties. The international centres of excellence at Sheffield (The Polymer Centre), Bolton (Textiles) and Salford (Fire Chemistry) have combined to produce a team which has the expertise to create such materials, and in so doing, breathe new life into UK's declining textile industry.Existing and novel nanocomposites will be formed from polyamides, polyesters and polyacrylics. These will be assessed for flammability and their ability to be spun into fibres. The bulk nanocomposite, its char, and the fibres formed from it will be investigated in order to design materials with improved fire retardancy. Nanocomposites will be supplemented by established flame retardant systems where necessary in order to produce a new generation of flame retardant textiles. The project will be led by the younger members of the team, fully supported by the collective wealth of experience of their senior colleagues.
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Project URL:  
Further Information:  
Organisation Website: http://www.bolton.ac.uk