​Intumescent Vs. Non-intumescent Fire-Resistant Coatings, How To Choose Between The Two Types?

Intumescent vs. Non-intumescent Fire-Resistant Coatings, How to Choose Between the Two Types?

I. Introduction
In the construction and industrial fields, fire safety is of paramount importance. Fire-resistant coatings, as crucial fire protection materials, play a key role in delaying the spread of fire and protecting structural safety during a fire incident. Among them, intumescent fire-resistant coatings and non-intumescent fire-resistant coatings are two common types. The following will provide an in-depth understanding of the characteristics and applications of these two coatings.

II. Differences Between Non-intumescent and Intumescent Types

1. Intumescent Fire-Resistant Coatings
Principles - Intumescent fire-resistant coatings, also known as foam-type fire-resistant coatings, expand and foam when exposed to fire. This produces a foam char layer dozens or even hundreds of times thicker than the original coating, providing excellent thermal and gas insulation, sealing the protected substrate, and preventing its combustion. Intumescent fire-resistant coatings are thin-film type.
Characteristics:

• Efficient Thermal Insulation: The expanded char layer has good thermal insulation properties, significantly reducing the rate of temperature rise of the protected object.

• Good Decorative Properties: Can be formulated into various colors as needed to meet different architectural decoration requirements.

• Convenient Application: Can typically be applied using conventional methods such as spraying and brushing.

Application Scenarios:

• Steel structure buildings: such as factories, stadiums, exhibition halls, etc.

• Cable trays: Protecting cables from damage during a fire.

• Interior decoration: In places with higher decorative requirements, such as shopping malls, hotels, etc., intumescent fire-resistant coatings can be used.

2. Non-intumescent Fire-Resistant Coatings
Principles - Non-intumescent fire-resistant coatings are composed of non-combustible or flame-retardant binders, flame retardants, and fire-resistant fillers, among other coating components. The inorganic film formed creates a glaze-like protective layer at high temperatures, covering the substrate, isolating oxygen, and thus avoiding or delaying the combustion reaction. Organic non-intumescent fire-resistant coatings decompose upon exposure to fire and heat, releasing non-combustible inert gases that dilute, cover, and capture the flammable gases decomposed from the heated substrate and the oxygen in the air, thereby suppressing combustion. The coating protects the coated substrate through its flame-retarding and heat-insulating properties.
Characteristics:

• Good Durability: As no expansion occurs, the coating has higher stability and a longer service life.

• Strong High-Temperature Resistance: Can remain stable at relatively high temperatures and is not easily damaged.

• High Reliability: Does not produce toxic gases during a fire, ensuring personnel safety.

Application Scenarios:

• Petrochemical facilities: such as storage tanks, pipelines, etc., which need to withstand high temperatures and flammable/explosive environments.

• Tunnels: Providing long-term fire protection for tunnel structures.

• Historic buildings: When protecting historic buildings, both fire performance and avoiding damage to the appearance must be considered. Non-intumescent fire-resistant coatings are a good choice.

III. How to Choose

1. Based on Usage Location
For locations with higher decorative requirements and relatively lower fire risk, intumescent fire-resistant coatings can be chosen.
For harsh environments such as high temperatures, flammability, and explosiveness, non-intumescent fire-resistant coatings are more suitable.

2. Based on Fire Protection Requirements
If rapid formation of a thermal insulation layer to prevent the spread of fire is needed, intumescent fire-resistant coatings may be more effective.
If long-term fire protection is required, non-intumescent fire-resistant coatings offer higher durability and reliability.

3. Consider Cost Factors
Generally, the price of intumescent fire-resistant coatings is relatively lower, but they require regular maintenance and inspection.
The initial investment for non-intumescent fire-resistant coatings might be higher, but maintenance costs are lower.

IV. Summary
Intumescent products are made using organic resins, foaming agents, etc. Non-intumescent products are made using flame-retardant or non-combustible inorganic thermal insulation materials. Intumescent products expand when exposed to fire, providing thermal insulation and fire protection through the resulting porous char layer. Non-intumescent products do not expand when exposed to fire, they provide thermal insulation and fire protection through their own insulating coating. Typically, the fire resistance of intumescent products is 1-2 hours, while for non-intumescent products it is 2-3 hours. When selecting, we need to choose the appropriate fire-resistant coating based on the application scenario to ensure it effectively performs its fire protection function in the event of a fire.

When selecting fire-resistant coatings, to enhance the flame retardant effect of intumescent fire-resistant coatings, Guangzhou Yinsu's Melamine Phosphate (MP) is an excellent choice. Leveraging nitrogen-phosphorus synergy, MP forms a protective char layer at high temperatures, effectively blocking flames. It is highly compatible with intumescent fire-resistant coating systems, enhancing thermal insulation while meeting decorative needs. Its outstanding thermal stability and cost-effectiveness make it widely used in construction and industrial fields, providing long-term and reliable fire protection for structures.