Lenzing FR® is a cellulose fiber which has been proven to provide exceptionally high heat protection. Protective clothing wearers’ physiological performance power was examined in an extensive study. The results were presented to specialists at Interschutz 2010 together with the author of the study, Univ.-Prof. Herfried Pessenhofer.
In a study by the Austrian Institute for Physiology of the Medical University in Graz, run by Univ.-Prof. DI Dr. Herfried Pessenhofer, the physiological properties of a variety of different materials were put to the test. The following materials, which are mainly used in protective clothing worn by firefighters, were included: blends of aramid and Lenzing FR®, 100 percent cotton with a flame-resistant finish, 100 percent aramid, and a blend of Modacryl and cotton. The aramid/Lenzing FR® fiber emerged as the clear winner of the study. Because a lower core body temperature is maintained with Lenzing FR®, the wearer has a higher performance profile. This increase in performance profile can be quantified at 16 Watts or the ability to run for one minute longer. And a single minute can in fact be the difference between life or death for firefighters.
Because of its skin-friendly properties, the Lenzing FR® fiber is used in numerous body-hugging textiles. The tests have also proven that a system of layers protects best. If the test subject wears materials which are both flame-resistant and absorbent, the very best performance profile values are attained. Moreover in body-hugging textiles, the fiber has to feel good next to the skin and should not be irritating. Lenzing FR® is a skin-friendly fiber and this is precisely why it is used in lingerie, socks, protective hoods and fleece jackets. Thus it is possible to protect oneself with Lenzing FR® from head to toe.
Lenzing FR® has a leading edge when it comes to quality. Lenzing FR® is the only FR fiber in the market place that is produced in the Modal process. Thus the very highest fiber tenacities can be reached and the flame protection is permanently encased inside the fiber. Conventional FR fibers made on a viscose basis, on the other hand, lose some of their tenacity and protective benefits during the process. Lenzing FR® offers reliable protection through Lenzing’s superior technology.
Around the globe, the flame-resistant fiber Lenzing FR® is known as a skin-friendly protective fiber. It is used in numerous working applications to provide optimum heat protection. The fiber’s unique thermal insulation properties combined with its permanent flame-resistance make Lenzing FR® the “Heat Protection Fiber”. The overheating of the body during extreme physical exertion represents a high risk. Due to Lenzing FR®’s natural origins– the fiber is made of wood– it demonstrates impressive moisture management which cools the body and reduces the life-threatening risk of heat stroke.
