DEVELOPMENT OF MINERAL AND CARBON FIBRES REINFORCED INTUMESCENT COATINGS FOR STEEL STRUCTURES

A range of intumescent coatings (IC) are in practice for fire protection as fire
posed great threats to human and buildings. However, low performance and soft char
of these coatings make them less effective. In this research, control IC formulation
was developed using ammonium polyphosphate, pentaerythritol, melamine at 3:1:1
ratio, and nine intumescent fillers. Epoxy to hardener ratio of 2: I was found to
provide better char qualities and thermal performance. Boric acid at 12.66 wt%
enhanced thermal performance of IC, improved char qualities and adhesion to the
substrate. Compared to a market coating, the control developed higher expansion with
more residues in 800°C furnace fire test (FFT). TGA analysis confirmed its better
thermal stability and higher residual weight. The control formulation was reinforced
with fibres for improvement of fire performance and char strength.