Advanced Self-Expanding Mineral Wool Technology Prevents Flame Spread in Ventilated Exterior Wall Cavities in Rainscreen Applications in Successful NFPA285 Test
Wilmington, DE – March 23, 2026 –Tenmat, a recognized leader in passive fire protection, is pleased to announce the completion of another successful NFPA285 test incorporating Tenmat’s FF102/50 Intumescent Fireblocking and Hoover Architectural Solutions, LLC’s (HAS) Reynobond® 4mm FR Aluminum Composite Material (ACM).
This collaboration was driven by the adoption of the 2022 NYC Building Code Section 718.2.6 Architectural Trim, which now requires fire blocking within rainscreen assemblies that include any component deemed combustible. To meet these new standards, Tenmat and HAS conducted a successful NFPA 285 fire test at Intertek Laboratories, combining Tenmat’s FF102/50 Intumescent Fireblocking, and Reynobond® 4mm FR ACM into an integrated system.
For architects and design professionals, this collaboration permits greater design freedom in a strict landscape without sacrificing compliance or budget. Hoover Architectural Solutions has helped architects, specifiers and contractors realize their visions for bold, high performing designs that have redefined skylines for over 50 years. Certified to ISO 9001:2015 standards, HAS is a leading manufacturer of composite materials, plate, and single skin aluminum sheets for the North American architectural and retail markets. With a strong commitment to excellence, extensive industry expertise, dedication to innovation, and unrivaled service, HAS empowers architects and design professionals to Build Bolder.
“Achieving NFPA 285 compliance gives the market a clear, dependable ACM solution for New York City. This milestone reduces risk, streamlines approvals, and ensures projects can move forward with confidence under the 2022 code,” said HAS Director of Sales, Ryan Long. “We see this as the start of a new era where advanced ACM installation methodology plays a pivotal role in shaping NYC’s skyline with confidence, code compliance, and the ability to Build Bolder. By integrating Tenmat’s FF102/50 Fireblocking with Reynobond® 4mm FR, we’ve proven that high‑performance façades can meet the city’s strict requirements without limiting architects’ creativity.”
Intumescent Fireblocking
At the heart of this solution is Tenmat’s FF102/50, a compact, reactive intumescent fire block engineered for ventilated cladding systems. With its promotion of airflow, moisture control, and energy efficiency – key indicators of rainscreen performance – while activating in the presence of high temperatures and flames to seal off air cavities and off put flame spread.
When exposed to high temperatures, the FF102/50 expands up to 25 times its original thickness, forming a robust fire block that helps contain fire and protect building occupants. Its rigid structure supports easy installation and long-term durability, making it a practical choice for both new construction and retrofit applications.
“With the successful completion of yet another NFPA285 test, Tenmat Intumescent Fireblocks reinforce their position as a game-changing solution for architects, delivering code compliance while unlocking the full benefits of ventilated rainscreen cladding systems with metal composite materials,” said Marco Kristen. “With NYC OTCR/DOB approval and exceptional performance in ventilated rainscreen systems, our intumescent fireblocks are helping usher ACM back into the forefront of modern architecture, restoring innovation, enhancing safety, and expanding design freedom across the built environment.”
Engineered for Compliance, Built for Performance.
This NFPA 285 test assembly was specifically constructed according to Section 718.2.6 Architectural Trim in the ’22 NYC Building Code Adoption, with fire blocks installed around window openings and slab —precisely where the code requires protection. The result is a fully ventilated wall system that meets modern building science standards while delivering critical fire resistance.
With this successful test, Tenmat’s FF102/50 and Reynobond® 4mm FR ACM offer comprehensive, code-compliant rainscreen systems in dense urban environments, such as the NYC landscape. Together, these companies are helping shape a safer, more resilient future for architectural design.
About Hoover Architectural Solutions, LLC
Certified to ISO 9001:2015 standards, Hoover Architectural Solutions, LLC (HAS) is a leading manufacturer of composite materials, plate, single skin aluminum and profiled sheets for the North American architectural and retail markets. Architects, contractors, and specifiers rely on Reynobond®, Reynoplate®, Reynoclad® and Reynodual® products to amplify the visual impact of their ideas – making their next bold design even bolder. Offering long-term and cost-effective solutions, these coil-coated sheets are durable, weather resistant, and easy to fabricate and maintain for interior and exterior use. Our ever-expanding range of colors and finishes, combined with unrivaled expertise and service, empower architects to Build Bolder.
