Abstract
The role played by the indiyidual carpet components in the overall flammability performance of a carpet have been investigated. The equipment employed for the evaluation was the National Research Council of Canada's Carpet Flammability Apparatus, which measures relative values for ease of ignition, flame-spread rate, smoke evolution, and rate of heat release. The results obtained indicated that in the case of a nylon level-loop carpet the use of a conventional latex, a secondary jute backing, and the dyeing and finishing process each contribute to the flammability of the carpet. The method of installation also has a pronounced effect on the flammability behavior. Carpets that are glued to cement-asbestos board are less easy to ignite, burn at a slower rate, and give off less smoke and heat compared to carpets not glued down or mounted with an underpad.
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