Fabric: Nomex® IIIA
When exposed to intense heat, Nomex® IIIA, a blend of Nomex® (93%), Kevlar® (5%) and P-140 carbon-core antistatic fibre (2%), thickens and carbonises creating a char layer that acts as a robust insulating barrier, protecting the wearer from heat exposure and providing crucial extra seconds of safety. The fabric's thickening process increases its volume and creates air pockets, which enhances its insulating capacity to further reduce heat transfer to the wearer. The inclusion of P-140 carbon-core antistatic dissipative fibre helps dissipate static electricity, critical in flammable industrial environments. The benefits of Nomex® fibre alone are immeasurable: Nomex® is an inherently heat and flame resistant meta-aramid fibre that won't melt, drip or support combustion in air, providing a superior barrier for what's inside from the hazards around it. The unique structure of Nomex® fibre is non-flammable, so performance is built in and can't be washed or worn away.
Moisture Barrier: FR Neoprene
Neoprene, or polychloroprene, is a versatile synthetic rubber produced by polymerizing chloroprene. Created in 1930, it is known for being durable, flexible and water resistant. It remains stable across wide temperatures (-40°C to +120°C) and resists oils, chemicals and UV rays, making it a popular choice for inclusion in high-performance protective PPE. FR Neoprene fabric operates by combining the inherent physical properties of polychloroprene foam (insulation, elasticity and water resistance) with specialised chemical additives that inhibit combustion. It is designed to self-extinguish and reduce flame spread when exposed to flame, often meeting strict standards such as UL94-V40. This standard is a high-level plastics flammability standard indicating that a material self-extinguishes within 10 seconds on a vertical specimen, with no flaming drips allowed. It is the most stringent of the V-series ratings (V-0, V-1, V-2) and ensures that flaming particles do not ignite materials situated below the sample.
