Nomex® IIIA: Inherent flame resistance, durability and lightweight breathability

DuPont™ Nomex® IIIA fiber is engineered by DuPont scientists with the goal of giving workers in the oil & gas, chemical and general manufacturing industries valuable extra seconds of protection to escape the intense heat and flames of on-the-job thermal hazards such as flash fires and pool fires. What’s more, fabric made of Nomex® IIIA is extremely durable and has the added benefit of lightweight protection to keep workers safe while feeling cooler and drier.

Most of us think of cotton as a comfortable fabric. However, heavier chemically treated cotton garments are not the same as your everyday cotton clothing. Chemical additives, which account for as much as 20% of the weight of the fabric, make the garment heavier than garments made of Nomex® IIIA fabric.

For example, garments made of Nomex® IIIA fabric have manufacturer-specified weights as low as 4.5 oz/yd2 while still meeting applicable standards such as NFPA 2112. By contrast, flame-retardant-treatment (FRT) cotton or cotton/nylon garments that meet NFPA 2112 requirements typically weigh at least 7 oz/yd2.

The flame resistance of fabrics made with Nomex® IIIA is not only built in—but it also helps manufacturers provide a lighter-weight, more comfortable garment. Fabric made of Nomex® IIIA can help give workers outstanding thermal protection and provide the added benefit of lightweight breathability.