Intumescent Coatings: The Unsung Heroes of Airport Fire Safety

Intumescent coatings are specifically designed to swell upon exposure to elevated temperatures, creating a protective char layer that insulates the steel and markedly diminishes heat transfer. These are critical for all Airport structures to protect them from the elements as well as fire. TARUN KUMAR, Head PFP – APEC, Hempel Paints, outlines the science and chemistry behind these paints and Hempel's contribution to this domain

- 

INTRODUCTION

When it comes to fire protection in critical infrastructure, few industries face as many challenges as airports. These vast, bustling hubs are not only vital transportation centres but also complex architectural marvels that require meticulous attention to both aesthetics and safety. One often overlooked yet crucial element in maintaining the structural integrity of airports during a fire is the use of intumescent coatings. These specialized fire-protective materials are designed to protect structural steel from the devastating effects of fire, ensuring the safety of passengers and the stability of the building.

THE SCIENCE BEHIND INTUMESCENT COATINGS

Intumescent coatings are engineered to expand when exposed to high temperatures, forming a protective char layer that insulates the steel and significantly reduces heat transfer. This insulating layer has low thermal conductivity, which delays the steel's temperature rise and extends the time before it reaches its critical failure temperature. By doing so, these coatings maintain the structural integrity of the building, providing valuable time for evacuation and firefighting efforts.

TYPES OF INTUMESCENT COATINGS

Intumescent coatings come in two primary forms: thin-film and thick-film. Thin-film coatings, often water and solvent-based, have a dry film thickness (DFT) of less than 5 millimetres and are ideal for aesthetic applications. Thick-film coatings, typically epoxy or hybrid technology-based, have DFTs up to 25 millimetres and offer robust protection in industrial settings. For airport structures, the choice between these types depends on specific project requirements and environmental conditions.

APPLICATIONS IN AIRPORTS