4. Conclusion

The fire resistance of thermoset matrix composites, although already high, can be increased by the use of inherently flame-retardant matrices or by the addition of flame-retardant additives, which may or may not act synergistically with other additives. These flame-retardant systems may have a chemical and/or physical action, the aim being to stop one of the stages in the combustion process. The nature of the matrix, the reinforcement phase and the reinforcement/matrix interface will modify the fire behavior of composites. Fiber architecture is also an important parameter, as it can influence the mode of action of flame-retardant additives.

A composite material is a complex material integrated into a medium, which can undergo numerous physical and chemical variations that can affect its properties. Many parameters must therefore be taken into account in order to...