Chemicals/fire retardant treatment of feather beds
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Question
I tried to destroy a very old feather bed (that my dog had been using) by burning it. I used a propane torch and could only get the "tick" or the feathers to burn while I kept the torch on them .They would go out as soon as I removed the torch? This bed is very old,and my question is what did they treat the feathers and tick with back in those days that works so well? I am simply curious and can't find the answer on any other source. Thanks for your help.
The feathers may not be treated at all. Treated feathers would not actually burn, just smolder. The age on the bed would be very important to know, since there are many flame retardants that were used. It could be as simple as a salt treatment. Only testing would tell you for sure.
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Henry Boyter
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Experience in the area
Chemistry (non-biochemistry), environmental science, occupational health and safety, environmental regulation and management, environmental engineering, and wastewater engineering. I'm the Director of Environmental, Health, and Safety and the Director of Research at the Institute of Textile Technology.
Experience
Chemistry (non-biochemistry), environmental science, occupational health and safety, environmental regulation and management, environmental engineering, and wastewater engineering. I'm the Director of Environmental, Health, and Safety and the Director of Research at the Institute of Textile Technology.
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