DNA-based coatings are experimental flame-retardant treatments, not universally “fireproof” products. In laboratory studies, DNA-containing layers have helped form protective char and reduced some measures of heat release on specific materials. Those results do not establish protection for every surface, a retail product, or approval for a regulated use.
How DNA can help a coating resist fire
DNA contains phosphate groups, sugars and nitrogen-containing bases. When heated in a coating system, these components can contribute to carbon-rich char and an expanded, insulating residue. That residue may slow heat and oxygen transfer at the material’s surface.
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The mechanism is a research-supported explanation, not a guarantee that a treated object will resist ignition or remain safe in a fire. Performance depends on the substrate, the coating’s formulation and how it is applied. Researchers have used methods including impregnation and layer-by-layer assembly, sometimes combining DNA with materials such as chitosan, clay or nanoparticles.
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Flexible polyurethane foam
A 2014 study listed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) examined layer-by-layer coatings containing chitosan (CHI), DNA and montmorillonite (MMT) on flexible polyurethane foam. In the study’s test context, the best-performing tested formulation, a CHI/DNA+MMT mix bilayer, reduced peak heat-release rate by 51% and average heat-release rate by 81%. These are results for that formulation and setup—not expected reductions for other coatings, materials or real-world fires.
#1 Best Overall
- Certified Class A fire retardant spray creates clear, dry, fire-resistant barrier that prevents the spread of flames
- Verified Class A performance: SGS ASTM E84 testing of treated wood produced a Flame Spread Index of 15 and Smoke Developed value of 55, earning a Class I/A rating.
- For absorbent materials: Treats unfinished wood, paper, cotton, fabric furnishings and other porous surfaces; not for painted, sealed, waterproof, polymer, nylon, silk or other nonabsorbent materials.
- Clear, water-based formula: Non-toxic and not classified as hazardous under OSHA HazCom 2012; dries clear and leaves little to no residue when properly applied.
- Straightforward application: Spray evenly on all sides or soak smaller items, allow 24 hours to dry and repeat as needed; one gallon covers up to 200 square feet, depending on absorption.
Textiles and polymers
A 2021 review describes DNA-containing flame-retardant treatments studied on textiles, including cotton, and polymer surfaces. Outcomes reported across this research include measures such as flame spread, self-extinction, char formation or heat shielding. The findings are not directly interchangeable: different substrates, coating recipes and test methods can produce different results. The review summarizes experiments; it does not establish that a standardized treatment is available to buy. Read the 2021 review.
Why researchers combine DNA with other materials
DNA is often considered as one component in a coating rather than a complete, ready-to-use protective layer. Chitosan, clay and titanium dioxide are among materials explored in combinations intended to build a layer or improve its properties. The existence of these research approaches does not demonstrate that one formulation is best, durable in service or suitable for a specific regulated application.
Rank #2
- FLAME RETARDANT -- Prevents flames from burning drapes, clothing, furniture, and fabrics.
- RESISTANT TO SPREAD -- Helps prevent the spread of fire and minimizes smoke development.
- STAIN PROTECTION -- Designed for water-safe fabrics that have not been treated with waterproofing.
- MEETS NATIONAL STANDARDS -- Tested in accordance with NFPA standards.
- SAFE & EASY TO USE -- Non-hazardous, environmentally friendly formula that is easy to apply and clean up.
What is not established
Laboratory flame-retardant effects do not show that DNA coatings prevent ignition in every fire, protect people or buildings, retain performance indefinitely, or meet standards for construction, furnishings, clothing or transport. The cited foam results do not establish performance on textiles or other polymers. A test result for one substrate and setup cannot substitute for evidence on the exact material and use in question.
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Reviews of bio-derived and surface-treatment coatings identify broader development challenges including extraction and purification costs, processing complexity, scale-up, durability and environmental effects. These are concerns for the technology’s development, not proof that every DNA-containing formulation has the same shortcomings. See the 2025 coatings review and the broader 2020 review of surface treatments. A 2025 overview discusses bio-based fire-resistant coatings and standardization more generally; its broader conclusions should not be read as DNA-specific findings. Read the 2025 review.
Rank #3
- Master Flame fire retardant spray has been tested in accordance with NFPA 701, ASTM E84, and California Title 19 standards. Creates fire resistant barrier that prevents the spread of flames.
- Master Flame's non-toxic formula is safe for homes, schools, and occupied spaces. Made with premium grade ingredients, the flame resistant spray dries clear with no odor or residue.
- Easy to apply. Simply spray on, roll on, or soak any absorbent material. No professional equipment needed. Dries clear in 24 hours. A water-based paint or stain can be applied on top.
- Use Master Flame on wood, fabric, cotton, burlap, thatch, hay, and other absorbent materials. Not compatible with waterproof, polymer, synthetic, nylon, or silk materials.
- Master Flame is non-toxic, eco-friendly, and free of PBDEs. No harsh chemicals, no harmful additives. A safer fire retardant for your family, your space, and the environment.
How to judge a DNA-coating claim
For a particular product or proposed treatment, useful evidence would identify the substrate, full coating formulation and application method, the fire test used, and the measured outcome. Practical readiness also depends on performance after relevant wear, washing or aging, and on evidence that the treatment is appropriate for its intended end use. There is no standardized head-to-head comparison across the research approaches described here.
No named commercial DNA-coating product or consumer installation instructions are established by the cited sources. These studies describe experimental systems, not ordinary retail fire protection; a generic flame-retardant spray or coating tool cannot be assumed to reproduce their results.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Certified Class A fire retardant spray creates clear, dry, fire-resistant barrier that prevents the spread of flames.
- Verified Class A performance: SGS ASTM E84 testing of treated wood produced a Flame Spread Index of 15 and Smoke Developed value of 55, earning a Class A rating.
- NFPA 701 and California recognized: SGS testing of treated absorbent fabric passed NFPA 701-2019 Test Method 1; registered with the California State Fire Marshal under Title 19 for interior use.
- For absorbent materials: Treats unfinished wood, paper, cotton, fabric furnishings and other porous surfaces; not for painted, sealed, waterproof, polymer, nylon, silk or other nonabsorbent materials.
- Clear, water-based formula: Non-toxic and not classified as hazardous under OSHA HazCom 2012; dries clear and leaves little to no residue when properly applied.
Rank #4
- Master Flame fire retardant spray has been tested in accordance with NFPA 701, ASTM E84, and California Title 19 standards. Creates fire resistant barrier that prevents the spread of flames.
- Master Flame's non-toxic formula is safe for homes, schools, and occupied spaces. Made with premium grade ingredients, the flame resistant spray dries clear with no odor or residue.
- Easy to apply. Simply spray on, roll on, or soak any absorbent material. No professional equipment needed. Dries clear in 24 hours. A water-based paint or stain can be applied on top.
- Use Master Flame on wood, fabric, cotton, burlap, thatch, hay, and other absorbent materials. Not compatible with waterproof, polymer, synthetic, nylon, or silk materials.
- Master Flame is non-toxic, eco-friendly, and free of PBDEs. No harsh chemicals, no harmful additives. A safer fire retardant for your family, your space, and the environment.
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