FR Viscose Fabrics: Inherent Protection Meets Cotton-Like Comfort
FR Viscose (Flame Retardant Viscose/Rayon) is a cellulosic fiber derived from sustainable wood pulp, modified to be flame resistant during the fiber spinning process. This results in a fabric that feels as soft and breathable as cotton but offers permanent fire protection.
Unlike synthetic fibers that may melt, FR Viscose is
non-thermoplastic. It will not melt or drip when exposed to heat, preventing severe skin burns. This unique combination of comfort and "no-melt, no-drip" safety makes it a critical material for high-performance protective clothing, often used alone or blended with Aramids to enhance wearer comfort.
Key Features
- Inherent Flame Retardancy: The flame-retardant agent is incorporated into the fiber matrix before extrusion. The protection is permanent and will not wash out or degrade over time.
- Superior Comfort & Moisture Control: Highly hydrophilic, it absorbs moisture and sweat away from the body better than cotton, reducing heat stress in hot industrial environments.
- Non-Melting Safety: In the event of a flash fire or arc flash, the fabric carbonizes without melting, ensuring it doesn't adhere to the skin.
- Eco-Friendly Origin: Made from renewable cellulose sources, it is biodegradable and softer on the skin than many synthetic FR alternatives.
International Standards Compliance
Our FR Viscose fabrics are tested to meet the rigorous standards required for personal protective equipment (PPE):
- EN ISO 11612: Protective clothing to protect against heat and flame (Codes A1, B1, C1).
- NFPA 2112: Standard on Flame-Resistant Clothing for Protection of Industrial Personnel Against Short-Duration Thermal Exposures from Fire.
- EN ISO 14116: Protection against limited flame spread (Index 3).
- ASTM F1506: Standard specification for flame resistant and arc rated textile materials (often relevant for FR Viscose blends).
Applications
| Sector |
Typical Use Cases |
Why FR Viscose? |
| PPE Base Layers |
FR Underwear, T-shirts, Hoods |
Soft touch prevents skin irritation; wicks sweat under heavy outer gear. |
| Industrial Workwear |
Coveralls, Shirts (often blended) |
Adds breathability to Aramid or Modacrylic blends; non-melting safety. |
| Fire Service |
Station Wear, Turnout Gear Linings |
Reduces heat stress for firefighters; compatible with outer shells. |
| Transport |
Bedding for Trains/Ships |
Combines comfort with strict flammability standards. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How does FR Viscose compare to FR Cotton?
A: Both are cellulosic and comfortable. However, FR Viscose is typically inherently flame retardant (the additive is inside the fiber), whereas most FR Cotton is surface-treated. FR Viscose also generally has better moisture absorption and a silkier feel.
Q: Will it shrink in the wash?
A: Like regular viscose or cotton, it can have some shrinkage, but our industrial FR Viscose fabrics are finished to minimize this. Always follow the care instructions. The flame retardancy itself will not wash out.
Q: Is it safe for direct skin contact?
A: Yes, it is one of the safest FR fibers for skin. It is hypoallergenic, non-irritating, and does not retain static, making it the ideal choice for underwear and balaclavas.