What are materials like concrete, stone, brick, or metal that do not easily catch fire called?

Materials such as concrete, stone, brick, or metal are classified as noncombustible materials because they do not ignite easily and do not support combustion. This means they will not catch fire under normal conditions and can withstand high temperatures without losing their structural integrity.

Noncombustible materials are particularly important in construction and fire safety because they contribute to the overall fire resistance of a building. They help create safer environments by reducing the risk of fire spreading and improving the building's ability to resist flames and heat.

In contrast, incombustible materials, while similar, are often used more technically to describe materials that may not produce flames but can still undergo changes or reactions when exposed to extreme heat. Combustible materials are those that can easily catch fire and burn, while hazardous materials encompass a broader category that includes substances that may pose risks, like toxicity or reactivity, but are not exclusively determined by their flammability.