Abstract: An intumescent composition is described which contains a binder based on polyurea. Using the composition, which has a relatively high rate of expansion, it is possible to easily and quickly apply coatings at the layer thickness required for the specific fire resistance duration, wherein the layer thickness can be reduced to a minimum yet still reach a high insulating value. The composition is particularly suitable for fire protection, particularly as a coating for metallic and non-metallic substrates such as steel components including columns, beams, or truss rods for the purpose of increasing fire resistance time.