An Early Warning Effect™ Wallcovering System for Enhanced Fire Detection

This paper describes a new material that is designed to reduce fire hazard by increasing the probability of escape from potential fire conditions. Specifically, The BFGoodrich Company includes an Early Warning Effect™ (EWE) system for poly (vinyl chloride) coated wallcovering. When heated to approximately 150°C, the wallcoverings release an odorless, colorless vapor that activates ionization smoke detectors prior to the development of smoke and flames. As such, the wallcoverings provide an "earlier warning" of a fire hazard compared to conventional interior furnishing materials.