P.M. Sawko

Intumescent coating compositions have been prepared using the ammonium salt of 4-nitroaniline-2-sulfonic acid and a copolymer of polysulfide-epoxy resin as the binder, into which have been dispersed various fillers. The fillers used in the study were low density microballoons for density control and fibers for controlled intumescences on contoured substrates. The filler effect on the thermal-physical efficiency of coatings has been measured. The coating utilizing short length silica fibers has been shown .to have superior mechanical, environmental, and thermal properties. The coating applied to the exterior of loaded weapons has increased the time-to-detonation from three minutes for the unprotected weapon to 10-13 minutes.

Dr. P.D. Gandhi

Fire test used to investigate the fire propagation characteristics of electrical cables are dependent upon use of the cable (type and designation) and also the installation. In these fire tests, fire propagation characteristics are either determined by the travel of the luminous flame along the sample or the extent o fire damage to the sample as determined by measurement after the test. Recent advancements in oxygen consumption calorimetry has enabled the use of heat release rate as supplemental information for vertical tray flame test described in UL1581. Additionally, calorimetery data can be developed for electrical cables using the Cone Calorimeter (ASTM E1354) to obtain fire performance factors not easily determined from product scale tests.

George L. Drake, Jr.

A typical laboratory and commercial procedure for the application of the APO-THPC flame retardant to cotton fabric is given. The finish can be readily applied to cotton using commercial equipment, the resulting fabric properties being comparable to those fabrics processed in the pilot plant. Commercial processing by various finishers necessitated some modification in the laboratory technique to adapt it to existing equipment.

The functions of the various components of the treating solution and the necessary precautions to be observed during fabric processing are discussed

A common Sense approach to failure analysis works well in most cases. The goal is to ensure that all needed documentation and measurements are done prior to any destructive examinations. The following chronological list of possible steps or "recipe" to help to avoid leaving out an important step.

Demetrius Kourtides

The thermochemical and flammability characteristics of some typical thermoplastic materials currently in use and others being considered for use in aircraft interiors are described.