Thesis (M.S.)--Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, 1991. / Vita. Abstract. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 79-81). Also available via the Internet.

Typescript (photocopy). / Digitized by Kansas Correctional Industries

The synthesis and fire retardancy of several bromoesters of 2,4-pentadienoic acid were investigated. The synthesis of 2,4-pentadienoic acid was accomplished by liquid phase reaction of acrolein and malonic acid in the presence of pyridine. The conversion of the acid to bromoesters was performed by two different procedures. In the first procedure, the corresponding acid chloride was prepared from the acid via reaction with SOCl2 in the presence of powdered (3A°) molecular sieves. The molecular sieves serve as an internal trap for by-product HC1 and inhibit the competing polymerization reaction of the acid chloride. Reaction of the acid chloride with various alcohols provided the unsaturated esters. The final step in the first procedure is total bromination of the unsaturated esters. The second procedure involved bromination of 2,4-pentadienoic acid and followed by reaction of the bromo acid with SOCl₂ to produce the corresponding bromo acid chloride. Reaction of the brominated acid chloride with alcohol provided the corresponding brominated esters. A simple laboratory test was developed to measure and compare the flame retardancy of the bromoesters.

The role of the interior designer in providing for fire safe interiors is an important one. The textile end-products they specify play an important part in the start and/or spread of interior fires. Furthermore, the rate of developments in textile testing and products makes it difficult for designers to keep abreast of the latest information. This thesis provides a program for updating interior designers on fire safe interior textiles. A one hour update program was developed as part of the thesis and delivered to members of the Southwest Regional Chapter of ASID in Roanoke, Virginia. An analysis of data from a survey showed that participants believe there is a need for an educational program such as this course and that they would attend a five hour CEU course developed on this subject. Responses to questions on textile fibers, standard tests, and new products on the market supported the perceived need for continuing education on the subject of fire safe textiles. The course evaluation in turn, determined that some areas of the program needed to be revised. This thesis provides a packaged program which can be easily updated. Furthermore, anyone with a textile background can use this program in preparing and delivering a CEU course on fire safety and interior textiles. / Master of Science