Fire-safe Polymers

Image of flames

Regulations in fire-safe materials are changing rapidly, creating tension in the industry: most fire-resistant materials contain toxic components. Our researchers are developing a new generation of fireproof materials that are equally safe and flame-retardant that can be used in carpeting, building materials, clothing and more—and exploring new ways to contain and protect property from wildfires.

Institutes, centers and labs related to Fire-safe Polymers

Firefighter putting out fire

Computational Fire Dynamics Laboratory

Advances fundamental fire science (e.g. microgravity combustion, solid pyrolysis) and studies the fire behaviors in unique conditions (e.g. aircraft, spacecraft, forest fire). CFD Mission

Aerogel material

David Schiraldi Research Group

Studies fuel cells, composite material science, biopolymers and nanotechnology.

Faculty who conduct research in Fire-safe Polymers

Hatsuo Ishida

Peter A. Asseff, PhD Professor of Organic Chemistry

Distinguished Research Professor

Professor, Macromolecular Science and Engineering

Develops advanced benzoxazine resins, thermosetting resins based on natural renewable materials and green flame retarding systems

Ya-Ting Liao

Associate Professor, Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Creates computational models of combustion, fire and fire behavior and develops fire-resistant structures

David Schiraldi

Professor Emeritus, Macromolecular Science and Engineering

Develops bio-based, flame-retarded plastics, polymer aerogels and packaging materials; and studies properties of polyesters

Fumi Takahashi

Professor Emeritus, Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Develops fire safety technologies and investigates combustion phenomena for practical applications

Jim Tien

Leonard Case Jr. Professor of Engineering

Professor Emeritus, Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Researches the effect of gravity on combustion and flammability of solid materials with applications in space exploration

Gary Wnek

Department Chair, Macromolecular Science and Engineering

Joseph F. Toot, Jr., Professor of Engineering

Professor, Macromolecular Science and Engineering

Develops advanced polymers for packaging, biomaterial applications and more.