Zydex Promotes Fire-Resistant Mineral Paint Technology for Safer Buildings in India

Zydex Paints is advocating the adoption of fire-resistant silicate mineral paint technology as India faces rising concerns over building fire safety and toxic smoke-related fatalities.

The company highlighted that thousands of fire accidents continue to occur annually across residential and commercial buildings in India. According to NCRB-linked data cited by the company, more than 7,000 fire incidents were recorded in 2023, resulting in nearly 6,900 deaths, with smoke inhalation and toxic gas exposure emerging as major causes of fatalities in enclosed structures.

Recent fire incidents in cities including Secunderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi have intensified discussions around the role of interior materials and coatings in accelerating fire spread and generating hazardous smoke.

Industry experts note that conventional acrylic and plastic-emulsion paints commonly used in buildings are petroleum-polymer based and can contribute to fire propagation. Under extreme heat conditions, such coatings may release toxic gases including carbon monoxide and hydrogen cyanide, reducing safe evacuation time during emergencies.

In contrast, Zydex’s silicate mineral paints are entirely inorganic and manufactured using potassium silicate and mineral fillers. The company said these coatings are inherently non-combustible and do not emit toxic fumes when exposed to high temperatures.

Dr. Maulik Ranka stated that India’s construction sector must move beyond structural compliance and also prioritise safer interior surface technologies. He said mineral paints chemically bond with masonry surfaces, reducing flame propagation and toxic smoke generation during fire incidents.

The company said its silicate mineral paints are certified Class 1 for fire resistance and undergo a chemical silicification process that bonds the coating directly with concrete, plaster, brick, or stone substrates. Unlike conventional paints that create a surface film, the mineral coating becomes part of the substrate itself, improving durability while reducing fire risks.

According to Zydex, the technology is particularly relevant for schools, hospitals, hotels, cinemas, libraries, public infrastructure projects, commercial complexes, and premium residential developments where occupant safety and evacuation time are critical considerations.

Amrendra Mishra said India is witnessing increasing demand for sustainable and safety-oriented construction materials. He added that mineral-based coatings are already widely preferred in several international public infrastructure projects because they do not produce dense smoke or toxic emissions during fires.

Established in 1997, Zydex Industries operates in specialty chemicals, waterproofing technologies, and advanced mineral paint systems, with a workforce of more than 1,200 professionals and a growing international presence.

The company believes the shift toward breathable, low-VOC, fire-resistant, and durable coating systems could become a significant trend in India’s evolving construction and infrastructure sector.
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