SpecialChem online offers summary information on fire safety, different flame retardant types for polymers, flame retardant application and use and fire performance testing. All flame retardant chemistries are presented, covering particularly applications in construction, electrical & electronic and transport applications.
The dossiers explain that “Flame retardants contribute directly to the saving of lives”, by slowing down polymer combustion time and degradation (fire extinction), reducing smoke emissions and avoiding dripping, so increasing escape time for occupants. Phosphorus FRs are indicated as addressing the trend to replace halogenated FRs by PIN FR systems, providing efficient performance, compatibility and cost in polyurethane foams, thermoplastic alloys (e.g. PC/ABS, PPO/HIPS). In foams, P-FRs enable high viscoelasticity, uniform IFD (hardness) distribution and low migration out of the material.
Above: SpecialChem online graph illustrating how flame retardants increase escape time http://polymer-additives.specialchem.com/selection-guide/flame-retardants-center/why-use-flame-retardants
SpecialChem “Flame retardants for polymers” http://polymer-additives.specialchem.com/selection-guide/flame-retardants-center Twitter: @SpecialChem