New lightweight fire-proof material could revolutionise firefighting uniforms
A team of Sydney scientists have developed a new lightweight and fire repellent material that could revolutionise firefighting uniforms.
A group of scientists based at a nuclear facility in Lucas Heights have developed a compound that's fireproof but also ultralight and can be coated on clothing.
Traditional firefighter uniforms have a high concentration of fire retardant on them, making the suit heavy.
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Currently, firefighters are heavy due to the repellant. 9News
"Putting on protective equipment, clothing, breathing apparatus, carrying tools, really wears a firefighter down," Commissioner Paul Baxter said.
"These uniforms are heavy, hot and stiff, the guys here say even going to a routine fire alarm, they'll come out dripping in sweat."
"Heat fatigue and fatigue in general is a real barrier to ongoing operations so I think this is an exciting proposition."
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When tested on wood, it didn't burn through. 9News
The new material is ultra-lightweight and only requires one coat. 9News
The new material is made from titanium and carbon combined with prawn shells, which are fire resistant and bind the metals together.
When coated on clothing it repels fire, dispersing the heat across the surface stopping the flames from penetrating.
Less than a millimetre of the product is needed, meaning it is far lighter than the traditional fire retardants.
"So whoever is wearing the uniform will be protected and don't feel high temperatures," nuclear scientist Guan Heng Yeoh said.
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It's hoped the material will be mass-produced within years. 9News
The formula can be layered on any surface including buildings, cars, and couches.
"We'll be looking at one or two years to get up the skills to mass-produce it," Mr Heng Yeoh said.
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