Richard E. Lyon
Published: 1998
Total Pages: 304
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This report details the research being conducted by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to develop fire-safe cabin materials for commercial aircraft; The objective of the Fire-Resistant Materials program is to eliminate burning cabin materials as a cause of death in aircraft accidents. Long-term activities include the synthesis of new, thermally stable, low fuel value organic and inorganic polymer systems. The synthesis effort is supported by fundamental research to understand polymer combustion and fire resistance mechanisms using numerical and analytic modeling and the development of new characterization techniques. Aircraft materials which are targeted for upgraded fire resistance are (1) thermoset resins for interior decorative panels, secondary composites, and adhesives; (2) thermoplastics for decorative facings, telecommunication equipment, passenger service units, molded seat parts, transparencies, and electrical wiring; (3) textile fibers for upholstery, carpets, decorative murals, tapestries; and (4) elastomers/rubber for seat cushions, pillows, and sealants. During the first 2 years of the program (1995- 1996) we have made significant progress in achieving our interim goal of a 50 percent reduction in the heat release rate of cabin materials by 2005 and zero heat release rate cabin materials by 2018 with respect to the 1996 baseline for new aircraft. A previous report, Fire-Resistant Materials: Research Overview, DOT/FAA/AR-97/99, summarizes the background and technical objectives of the program and serves as an introduction to the present document.