Abstract: Heat ablative compositions, comprises a binder and a filler including a combination of aluminum sulfate hydrate and aluminum ammonium sulfate hydrate. The combination produces a synergistic effect on the fire protection rating of the composition. The binder may be chosen from inorganic or organic binders.

Abstract: An ablative-type protective material is provided comprising:(a) a polymeric compound comprising a plurality of at least a first repeat unit having the form ##STR1## wherein the first repeat unit is present in an amount ranging from about 70 to about 100 mole percent, inclusive and(b) an aluminum sulfate hydrate of the general formulaAl.sub.2 (SO.sub.4).sub.3.nH.sub.2 Owherein n is an integer from 14 through 18, inclusive and wherein the aluminum sulfate hydrate is present in an amount greater than about 50% by weight of the ablative-type protective material.The resulting composition exhibits an improved resistance to oxidative degeneration as well as improved heat and flame protection times.