noun
- substances that slow down or prevent a chemical reaction or process, especially combustion
Usage: plural form of retardant; commonly used in fire safety contexts
Examples
- Fire retardants are sprayed from aircraft to help control wildfires.
- The building materials contained flame retardants to meet safety codes.
- Chemical retardants can slow the spread of forest fires.
- The fabric was treated with fire retardants before being used in furniture.
- Firefighters use various retardants to create firebreaks around homes.
- Some retardants work by releasing water vapor when heated.