Dickies UK 2014 Workwear Catalogue April 2014 | Page 103

HEAT & FLAME PROTECTIVE WORKWEAR RANGE
PROBAN®

Cotton fibres treated with a phosphonium salt precondensate, polymerized
with a gaseous ammonia (THPOH-NH3) process. During the Proban® process,
an inert cross-linked polymer is formed. This polymer is embedded within the
individual fibres and is insoluble. It cannot be removed by washing and can only
be removed by mechanical abrasion or rendered ineffective through
incorrect laundering (see below). Proban® fabrics comfortably meet the
minimum standards required of 50 washes @ 75°C. Each batch of Proban®
treated fabrics are independently tested to this Standard and are certified by
Rhodia Consumer Specialties Limited, producers of the Proban® chemical, to
maintain its flame retardant characteristics for 50 washes providing the correct
laundering instructions are followed. However, numerous independent tests have
shown Proban® treated garments still pass this flammability test well after 100
to 150 washes.

PYROVATEX®

Cotton fibres treated with a crosslink resin utilising the heat-cured
dialkylphosphonamide process that forms a bond on the molecular level to the
cellulose in the Cotton fibres. This creates a very strong, durable and protective
link that makes the fabric resistant to shrinking or melting when exposed to
heat and flame. Our Pyrovatex® fabrics are made from high quality Cotton fibres,
consequently they are lightweight and comfortable with excellent durability to
wash and wear, ensuring Dickies Workwear a long lifetime.

Modacrylic

The permanently flame retardant Modacrylic fibre has been blended with
cotton for a natural feel and maximum comfort. The flame retardant properties
of Modacrylic are a part of the fibre resin of the Modacrylic Fibre and as a
consequence cannot be removed. There is no deterioration in flame retardancy
after either repeated washing or normal use over time.

PROTAL®

Permanently flame retardant Modacrylic fibre has been blended with
complimentary fibres designed to offer Flame Retardancy that cannot be washed
out and is permanent in the characteristics of the fibre itself. In addition to the
Modacrylic fibre FR properties, these other blends of complimentary fibres
offer additional beneficial features such as strength, durability, lighter more
comfortable weights with superb moisture management allowing the Worker to
remain cool and dry in the most extremes of Temperatures whilst affording them
high levels of protection.

Aramids

Nomex is one of the better known brands for protective solutions based on a
family of highly heat and flame resistant aramid fibres invented and produced by
DuPont™. The high level of protection does not come from chemical treatment,
but is engineered into the molecular structure of the fibre. This means that the
heat and flame resistance of Nomex® is inherent and permanent, and that its
protective performance will last the life of a garment. In addition to managing
extremes of heat through advanced thermo technology, Nomex® protective
apparel also delivers optimum comfort and durability.