The History of Flameproofing

While flameproofing has gotten a lot of attention in recent days, the fact of the matter is that different forms of flameproofing have been in effect throughout history.  True, it didn’t look like our modern techniques of soaking or coating items in chemically-prepared fire retardants, but ever since humans have realized the dangers of fire, there have been efforts of protection against it.

Gustave Bonadio tells us that even as far back as BC days, before early Christianity, some version or other of flameproofing was used.  We have other examples of flameproofing used during medieval times. For example, during the wars of the Dark Ages, mobile towers were used to storm enemy strongholds.  These towers were covered with alum mixtures in order to protect them from catapults of fire and hot pitch that the enemy would use against them.

As time progressed, flameproofing techniques were used not just in warfare but in locations where the public gathered, such as theaters.  As far back as the early 1600s, clay was mixed in with paint that was used for canvas artwork that decorated theaters. Now, we use elements such as ammonium salts and borax in our flameproofing mixtures.

As for the flameproofing methods used today, that can be traced back to Michael Wolfinden.  He began his research in this industry back in 1976, which eventually resulted in the first fire retardant that could be used for fabrics and textiles, as told by Fabric Flare. Since then, the process and chemicals used have been streamlined to provide the most protection while using the safest of chemicals, both for humans and the environment.

Since the dawn of time, humans have understood the power held within fire. It is certainly to be respected and taken seriously. Thankfully, due to smart minds like Wolfinden and others, we have found ways to protect ourselves from the potent strength in fire, so that it is used to serve instead of hurt humanity.

NYC Flameproofing is proud to play a role in protecting our city from the threat of fire through flameproofing. We have used our expertise in the flameproofing industry to keep our communities and neighborhoods safe. If you have flameproofing needs that we can assist you with, we would be happy to answer all of your questions and provide you with a free, no-obligation quote.  Call to speak to one of our flameproofing experts today: 1-(800) 291-0904.