What type of firestopping technology can expand as much as 25 times in volume?

Intumescent firestopping technology is designed to provide effective fire protection by expanding significantly in volume when exposed to high temperatures, often by as much as 25 times. This expansion creates a char that seals gaps and penetrations in walls, floors, or ceilings, thereby preventing the passage of fire, smoke, and toxic gases between compartments within a building. The unique property of intumescent materials is their ability to respond to heat, allowing them to provide a dynamic form of fire protection that adapts as fire conditions change.

In contrast, sealants typically do not have the same expansive characteristics and are primarily used to fill joints or gaps. Thermal insulation focuses on managing temperature and energy efficiency rather than fire-stopping capabilities. Fire-resistant boards provide passive fire protection but do not exhibit the expansive properties that intumescent materials possess. Thus, intumescent technology stands out for its unique ability to expand and enhance fire resistance under heat, making it a critical component in the strategy for fire protection in various construction applications.