Comparison of Inherent FR and Chemical Finish Durability

Concepts of Inherent Flame Retardancy and Chemical Finish

Fire safety in contract textiles is ensured through technologies that retard the ignition behavior of fabric exposed to flame [1], [2].
In this field, there are two primary approaches: 'Inherent FR' (inherently flame retardant) and 'chemical finish' [2], [3].
In inherent FR technology, flame retardancy is integrated at the molecular level into the polymer backbone during chemical polymerization or spinning stages [2], [3].
In phosphorus-modified polyester fibers (for example Trevira CS), which are among the most common representatives of this group, flame-retardant organic phosphorus monomers are bound to the polymer chain via covalent bonds [1], [3].
Kanecaron is also an inherent FR fiber [2].

Chemical Finish Coatings and Differences in Laundering Durability

In the chemical finish method, the FR chemical is applied to the fabric subsequently [3].
Because non-durable finishes can be removed by water, these fabrics may lose their FR properties upon laundering [1], [3].
In inherent fibers, by contrast, flame retardancy is an intrinsic property of the fiber structure [2], [3].

Industrial 50 Laundering and Healthcare Sector Specifications

The HTM 05-03 Part C fire safety guidance published by the UK National Health Service (NHS) serves as the primary reference for curtain and fabric selection across healthcare campuses [1].
The NHS guide recommends the BS 5867-2 Type B standard as the baseline performance tier for curtains deployed in hospitals and clinics [1].
Contrary to popular industry assumption, the 50-wash requirement is not mandatory across all hospital premises; Type C performance tested after 50 industrial washes is recommended solely for high-risk specialized zones [1].
Because hospital textiles are laundered at high temperatures, the FR performance of fabrics used in these settings must be durable to laundering [1].