What is Fireproof Fabric Made Of?
Fireproof fabrics are specialized textiles designed to withstand exposure to flames and high temperatures. They are manufactured from various materials capable of enduring thermal stress. Common base materials include fiberglass, ceramic fiber, and basalt fiber. It is important to note that asbestos, once a popular material, is now recognized as a pollutant and carcinogen. Many countries have banned its use, and it is strongly advised to avoid asbestos-based products.
In China, widely used materials for fireproof fabric include fiberglass, basalt fiber, aramid, and ceramic fiber. These base fabrics can be further treated with different coatings or composites—such as silicone, polyurethane (PU), graphite, vermiculite, acrylic, high-silica, or calcium silicate—to enhance their properties. These treatments can provide additional benefits, such as waterproofing, increased abrasion resistance, reduced skin irritation, improved sealing, corrosion resistance, oil resistance, aging/weather resistance, and protection against ozone and UV radiation.
Within the industry, silicone coated fiberglass fabric is one of the most widely used and versatile types. It is made by calendering, impregnating, or coating a high-temperature resistant fiberglass base cloth with silicone rubber. Typical applications include smoke curtains, removable insulation jackets, fire blankets, and flexible duct connectors.
Coated fireproof fabrics are available in a variety of colors—such as red, grey, black, white, yellow, blue, green, and salmon—allowing selection based on specific application needs. Depending on the use case, fabrics can be coated on one side or on both sides. For applications requiring resistance to temperatures exceeding 550°C, materials like silica cloth, vermiculite coated fiberglass cloth, or graphite coated cloth are recommended.
When selecting fireproof fabric, it is essential to consider the actual application. For instance:
For fire blankets or removable insulation jackets, either uncoated or coated fabrics may be suitable.
For flexible ducting, fabric ventilation pipes, or smoke curtains, double-sided coated fireproof fabric is generally recommended.
Choosing the right material and coating ensures optimal performance, durability, and safety in demanding high-temperature environments.