International Barrier Technology, Inc. (IBTGF), a publicly traded company based in Louisiana, has developed a fire-rate product called Pyrotite – a strong material that is replacing old fire-safe technologies.

According to IBTGF President and CEO Dr. Mike Huddy, the chemical formulation for this technology was first developed in Norway during the 1870’s. During these past 20 years of implementing improvements, IBTGF has perfected this new process technology to create a fire-safe alternative for private homeowners and residential builders. The process is trademarked by Flamblock and sold through MuleHide Products, Inc., and by Louisiana Pacific Corporation (since January 2009) under LP Building Products.

By integrating cement technology with wood technology, IBTGF has created a fire-rated wood panel that increases people’s safety dramatically and deters the chances of completely losing one’s home.

“There’s been materials that have been around historically that people have used,” explained Dr. Huddy, “but now, [we have] a different way to build a firewall. What we do is basically bring the strength and ease of use of wood together with the fire-resistance of non-combustible cement.”

Toxin-free and environmentally friendly, Pyrotite is a mixture of magnesium oxide, fiberglass and water that gives off vapors when a fire is ignited. It is all-weather resistant and does not react to the environment or execute harsh chemicals that can harm it. As well, it surpasses other fire-rated materials such as plywood or gypsum.

One of the videos on IBTGF’s website demonstrates how flameretardant Pyrotite really is. In the video, firemen on the scene lit two shacks – one was made with LP Flameblock and the other one was not. The flames engulfed the untreated OSB structure within minutes, but the flames barely did so to the treated one.

Pyrotite can be used in any part of a home, including roof decks and parting walls that divide multifamily residential buildings, and it can be used in portable classrooms, office trailers, and other types of construction.It provides the same strength required in the building of stable structures and can be added to stucco, brick, and stone. It comes in arrays of thickness, trimmings and sidings. It’s easier for builders to handle and cut with less waste than with regular wood or cement, and it has more durability as it does not fall to the usual wear and tear, nor is it susceptible to damage from termites.

The current economic downturn has given IBTGF ample time to brainstorm on how to better expand its products and create time-saving manufactured goods. Dr. Huddyasserts that, despite prevailing economic conditions,this small company has increased its business and, he believes, is gaining in market shares. He further advises that building owners should “think beyond what they’re doing now” and be more expansive in selecting the products they’re now using.