METHODS FOR REDUCING THE FLAMMABILITY OF CELLULOSIC SUBSTRATES

摘要

Methods of rendering celluosic materials fire retardant, and articles of manufacture including the materials, are disclosed. The methods involve applying to the material a composition including a carboxylic acid-containing compound and a suitable catalyst for coupling the compound to some or all of the hydroxy groups present on the material, and esterifying the hydroxy groups. The advantages of this fire-retardant composition include a relatively low level of toxicity, and the stability of the ester bond to conventional steam cleaning and other carpet cleaning methods. In a preferred embodiment, the fire-retardant cotton-fiber composition is used to prepare cotton carpets or raised surface apparel.