What happens to intumescent coatings when exposed to high heat?

When intumescent coatings are exposed to high heat, they undergo a chemical reaction that causes them to expand significantly. This expansion forms a thick, insulating char layer that serves to protect the underlying substrate, such as steel or wood, from the effects of fire. This insulating barrier helps to maintain the structural integrity of the material beneath the coating by slowing down the transfer of heat and reducing the risk of ignition or structural failure during a fire event.

The unique property of intumescent coatings is their ability to provide fire resistance without compromising the aesthetic qualities of the structure in normal conditions. When temperatures rise during a fire, the coating expands, enhancing its protective qualities and ensuring that critical structural components remain intact for a longer duration, which is vital for safety and compliance with fire codes.