The thermal protective performance of 21 heat-resistant fabrics made with poly benzimidazole (PBI), aromatic polyamide (aramid), and blends of PBI with aramid or with flame retardant rayon fibers was evaluated in laboratory tests using highly intense exposures to radiant or convective heat sources. The contribution of heat transfer mechanisms to thermal insulation is discussed, as is the degradation behavior of different materials in high intensity heating. Variables important in the development of improved fabrics for thermal protective apparel are identified.
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