Solution
The collaboration began with Professor Yeoh and his team at UNSW conducting research to develop a polymer-based coating that could withstand extreme heat and flames. After extensive rounds of testing and adjustments, the team identified a unique formulation that creates a dense char layer when exposed to fire. This layer acts as a barrier, preventing flames from penetrating and causing damage to the underlying structure.
FSI and UNSW worked closely to test the effectiveness of the paint, conducting more than 100 tests on different materials. The breakthrough came when the coating withstood a direct flame for over an hour, proving its efficacy. Following rigorous certification processes, FIRECOAT was commercialised and is now available for purchase in Australia and the US soon to follow. Commercial partners are all commercialising FIRECOAT, including Transport for NSW, who are evaluating FIRECOAT Exterior on wooden acoustic panels to avoid high-cost replacements across the network.
"This new paint technology is the world-first paint to pass the stringent Australian standard test (AS 3959) that simulates a bushfire attack. It has been accredited with a BAL-40 rating. The BAL or Bushfire Attack Level rating is the Australian standard for measuring the risk of a home’s exposure to ember attack, radiant heat and direct flame contact. BAL-40 indicates that a building or material has been tested and approved to withstand higher levels of radiant heat (up to 40kW/m²) and ember attack during a bushfire, which provides increased protection against bushfires in areas prone to extreme fire conditions."
Professor Guan Yeoh, UNSW Sydney School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering
