Flame retardancy is the property of an additive that lowers the flammability of a material. Flame retardancy is measured by several standard testing methods, with the most common test being the UL94 test. However, more information is obtained by utilizing a cone calorimeter. Clay/polymer nanocomposites lower the flammability of the polymer significantly in both types of flammability tests. Clay layer-by-layer composites have been shown to greatly lower the flammability of textiles. The flammability of materials for construction and clothing is of particular interest for the interiors of airplanes, commercial and residential construction, home furnishings, children sleepware, and clothing for industrial workers.
Cf., layer-by-layer composites