Yes — provided you go as far as saturation and stay within the scope of the test report. A textile fire retardant sprayed until saturation and run-off gives the M1 classification to the fibres described in LNE classification test report no. P258195 – DEC/1. A thin mist of product achieves nothing. The quantity is calculated fibre by fibre: area × weight × 0.2, at 200 points per litre.
Fire retardant spray is growing in popularity thanks to its simple promise : once applied, it makes a material fire-retardant and compliant with fire safety standards. But is it truly effective ? What are its strengths, limitations, and ideal uses ? Discover our complete guide to fire retardant spray.
Understanding how fire retardant sprays work
Mechanism of action
Fire retardant sprays work by impregnating the material with a specially formulated product designed to delay the spread of flames in the event of a fire. When exposed to heat, the spray creates a protective barrier that helps limit or slow down ignition. This mechanism slows down combustion without necessarily making the material completely fire-retardant (depending on the standard achieved through treatment).
Sprays vs other treatments
Unlike fire-retardant paints or varnishes, fire retardant sprays are, in most cases, invisible once dry (depending on the specific product and surface). They preserve the original appearance of the material and are easier to apply, either by spraying or light soaking.
Advantages and limitations of fire retardant sprays
Key benefits
- Ease of use : Quick application without complex preparation.
- Substrates covered: textiles in polypropylene 70 g/m², polyester 175 g/m², linen 230 g/m² and cotton 150 g/m², artificial foliage, and softwood (yellow fir, 10 mm) treated by immersion in a bath. Paper, cardboard and natural plants are not within the scope of our test reports.
- Aesthetic preservation : Colourless product that does not alter texture or appearance.
Important limitations
- Indoor use only : The treatment is water-soluble (exposure to rain or steam affects performance, requiring reapplication).
- Variable effectiveness : Non-porous surfaces (e.g., varnished or synthetic materials) are less protected or may be unsuitable for treatment.
- Specific fire ratings : Performance depends on classification (M1 in France or Euroclass in Europe). It is essential to choose a spray that meets the correct standard for your intended use and environment.
How to properly use a fire retardant spray ?
Before applying, ensure the surface is clean and free of dust to allow optimal absorption. Spray evenly from a distance of 15-20 cm, making sure to cover the entire area uniformly. For thick or double-sided materials, treatment on both sides is recommended to ensure full protection. Allow to dry naturally at room temperature, typically between 12 and 72 hours depending on the surroundings.
A well-chosen fire retardant spray, applied as recommended, offers effective protection by delaying ignition, providing extra time in the event of a fire, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations (particularly in public buildings and high-risk areas).
Our M1-classified fire retardant sprays from Alfaflor, with documentation
At Alfaflor, the fire retardants supplied in a sprayer are our textile and artificial plant treatments: EUROTEXTIL is classified M1 under the conditions of LNE test report no. P258195-DEC/1 and EUROFLOR under no. P258195-DEC/2, each on the substrates listed in its report — EUROMASSIF BOIS, for its part, is applied by immersion in a bath only: they slow down combustion without altering the material’s appearance. They are tested in accordance with standard NF P92‑507 and the classification is delivered by the LNE, a laboratory accredited for reaction-to-fire testing; a report issued outside accreditation is not enforceable in premises open to the public.
With every purchase, you receive :
- The classification test report, the instructions for use and the application declaration to be completed by the applying company,
- An official test report to present to safety authorities,
- Testing carried out by the LNE, a laboratory accredited for reaction-to-fire testing: a classification issued under accreditation is enforceable in premises open to the public.
Our sprays are suitable for a wide range of materials (fabrics, wood, cardboard, artificial plants), offering a solution that is :
- Easy to apply
- Truly effective in securing your spaces
- Fully compliant with regulatory requirements