Abstract: A flame-retardant latex foam contains at least 35 (and preferably 40 to 55) parts by weight of an expandable graphite per hundred parts by weight of latex. Additional flame-retardant materials (e.g. hydrated aluminas, magnesium hydroxide, compounds of halogen and/or phosphorus, boron compounds, antimony oxides or melamine) can be included in the foam formulation, as can fillers or intumescent agents. The expandable graphite contains one or more exfoliating agents such that considerable expansion will occur at high temperatures. Foams according to the present invention satisfy the conditions of British Standard Specification Nos. 5852; Part 2; 1982 and 4735; 1974.

Abstract: Flexible polyurethane foams are used for a wide variety of applications including upholstery and bedding. Unfortunately polyurethane foams are inherently flammable. The invention overcomes this problem by using expandable graphite in the polyurethane foam-forming reaction mixture to improve the burning characteristics of the final foam. Expandable graphite is graphite containing one or more exfoliating agents so that considerable expansion will occur at high temperatures.

Abstract: A flame-retardant upholstery component consists of a core of a polyurethane foam, which foam collapses on application of a flame thereto, said core being covered with a layer of a foam material which has been impregnated with a flame-retardant substance.