How SPERM could protect your home from fire: Scientists use DNA from herring to develop new flame retardants

Researchers at the Polytechnic University of Turin are using DNA extracted from herring sperm cells to develop new types of flame retardant materials They found DNA forms a protective coating when heated that resists fire The DNA breaks down into a foam that chars into a ceramic-like material Scientists believe it could create environmentally-friendly flame retardants These could be used to protect fabrics, furniture and plastics from fire

By Richard Gray for MailOnline

Published: 07:31 EST, 25 March 2015 | Updated: 08:57 EST, 25 March 2015

DNA molecules extracted from fish sperm is being used to develop new types of flame retardant materials.

Scientists recently discovered that DNA is highly resistant to fire.

And in a series of experiments, the researchers coated cloth in the DNA from herring sperm cells and found it converts to a ceramic-like material when exposed to extreme heat.

Cotton layered with DNA molecules resists burning as the genetic material forms a ceramic-like coating over the fabric, shown in the bottom image in the photograph above, while untreated cotton will burn readily (top)

This char-like foam then helps to prevent the flames from catching alight on the material.

Researchers behind the work believe DNA could provide a natural and environmentally-friendly way of protecting fabrics from fire.

DNA was thought to be a delicate and easily damaged material.

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How SPERM could protect your home from fire: Scientists use DNA from herring to develop new flame retardants