Flame retardant fiber blends comprising flame retardant cellulosic fibers and fabrics and garments made therefrom

Abstract

An intimate blend of staple fibers has from (10) to (75) parts by weight of at least one aramid staple fiber, from (15) to (80) parts by weight of at least one flame retardant cellulosic staple fiber, and from (5) to (30) parts by weight of at least one polyamide staple fiber. The intimate blend of staple fibers provides yarns and fabrics that are flame retardant, also referred to as fire resistant, and can be used to make flame retardant articles, such as clothing. The flame retardant fabrics may have a basis weight from 0.13 - 0.50 kg / m squared (4 to 15 ounces per square yard).

Description

Background technique

[0001] There is a continuing need for flame-resistant, also known as fire-resistant, fabrics that can be used in the manufacture of clothing suitable for persons working near flames, high temperatures, or arc flashes. In addition to having excellent thermal properties, an effective flame retardant fabric should be durable, comfortable, and should be able to be produced at low cost. While fabrics made from fibers that are inherently flame resistant have been well suited for use in protective apparel, certain characteristics of these fibers are problematic. For example, these fibers can be difficult to dye, have an uncomfortable weave, and are expensive. To address these issues, fibers that are inherently flame resistant have been blended with fibers made from other materials. Fiber blends can be used to produce purpose fabrics that combine the beneficial characteristics of each of the constituent fibers. However, such blends often result in reduced durab...