ABSTRACT
Elastomers fit and serve numerous functions very well. Some of the largest volume applications of rubber—e.g., tires, gaskets, seals, footwear—do not normally require flame resistance. However, elastomers, like all organic substances, can burn, and some of their applications require that special attention be paid to their flammability properties and to the selection of flame-resistant materials. It is the intent of this chapter to summarize the major flammability characteristics of various elastomers, the means and mechanisms that have been used for inhibiting flammability, reference sources for selected applications and formulations for flame-resistant elastomers, tests for flammability, and issues of smoke and combustion toxicity. This is done to enable the reader to better assess elastomer flammability when selecting materials for a specific application.
