THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: An ISRO-developed low-cost technology which protects PSLV fuel tanks from flames can now be used to safeguard railway coaches, buildings and vehicles from catching fire. According to the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), the new compound, christened CASPOL, is a water-based ready-to-coat and easy-to-use flameproof coating, with excellent flame retardant, waterproofing and thermal control properties. "It can be applied on walls, clothes, paper, thatched roofs and wood to protect them from fire," the space agency said Monday in a statement.

CASPOL, which contains no toxic materials, is eco-friendly. "The emulsion can be sprayed or spread using a brush on surfaces that need fire protection. One litre of CASPOL can coat 1.5 sq metre with a thickness of 500 micron, which is practically adequate for fire protection and thermal insulation," the statement said. It can also be used as a flame retardant material in railways and automobiles where the seat cushions can be made flameproof without affecting the cushioning characteristics.

Shopping malls and theatres can be easily rendered fire resistant by using CASPOL in their seat cushions and walls. CASPOL can also be applied over the concrete surfaces of buildings to prevent water seeping as its application fills micro cracks and holes effectively. It also helps keep building cooler by at least five to six degrees Celsius. ISRO is presently looking for a suitable industry partner to commercialize this technology for social benefit. 

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