Fire behavior of composites

Composite materials are widely used as structural parts. They offer users numerous functional advantages: lightness, mechanical and chemical resistance, reduced maintenance, freedom of shape and excellent impact resistance. These advantages have opened up major markets for them, particularly in the aeronautical and marine sectors.

However, these materials are often vulnerable to fire, burning easily and emitting toxic fumes. This behavior is generally linked to the organic nature of the polymer matrix of which they are composed.

The aim of this dossier is to present the different approaches that can be taken to improve the fire behavior of composites. After a brief review of combustion phenomena, we will present the influence of resin type on the fire behavior of composites. We will also look at the influence of the reinforcement/matrix interface on fire development. We will then show how fire-retardant additives partly solve the problem of composites' flammability. Finally, we'll conclude with a presentation of the standardization aspect in relation to the intended field of application.