MATERIALS | FLAME RETARDANTS
Above: Tosaf’s advanced flame retardant lab, equipped with state-of-the-art technology, offers compre- hensive testing capabilities to meet a broad range of fire standards
retardancy test. The V-0 rating is the highest level of flame retardancy performance in the industry. “The transition to eco-friendly materials, includ-
ing PFAS-free flame-retardant plastics, will become a global trend. We will continue our research and development efforts to create eco-friendly and flame-retardant materials that prioritise customer well-being and the environment,” said Steven Kim, Senior Vice President of LG Chem’s Engineering Materials Business Unit. In addition to PC/ABS materials, LG Chem has successfully obtained UL certification for various PFAS-free flame-retardant materials it has devel- oped, including PC and PBT. The HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air condi- tioning) industry is a key market for FR PP and ABS compound producer Tosaf. The sector is experi- encing significant growth due to various factors, including rising global temperatures, increased urbanisation, and a heightened demand for energy efficiency. “Flame retardants play a vital role in ensuring that the plastic components within [HVAC] systems meet stringent fire safety standards, protecting both consumers and properties from potential fire hazards,” it said. The company’s products undergo rigorous testing to pass needle flame and glow wire tests, validating their reliability in high-risk environments. This ensures that they not only meet regulatory standards but also perform effectively under real-world conditions, it said. “We recognise that each application has unique
requirements. Therefore, we offer tailor-made compounds designed to meet specific mechanical properties and flame retardant performance needs. Our team of experts collaborates closely with customers to develop solutions that not only enhance safety but also optimise the overall performance of HVAC systems. This bespoke approach allows us to cater to a wide array of applications, from residential air conditioning units
30 COMPOUNDING WORLD | December 2024
to large-scale industrial systems,” said the company. Tosaf offers PP and ABS non-halogenated FR compounds that meet various UL 94 classifications. Its halogenated FR compounds include: FR PP V2, a halogenated black PP flame retardant compound that meets UL94 V2 standards, suitable for applica- tions where a moderate level of flame resistance is required; FR PP V0, grey base, which meets UL94 V0 requirements, offering enhanced fire resistance for more demanding applications; FR PP 5VA, black base, with a UL94 5VA rating, providing the highest level of flame resistance and suited to critical components that demand superior protection; and FR ABS V0, a halogenated ABS FR compound that meets UL94 V0 standards. Tosaf said it also offers FR compounds with low carbon footprint values, aligning products with ecological solutions and sustainability goals. Sustainability is the focus of new FR compounds launched by Cabopol in the wire and cable market. The R-Sofiplus range are FR PE grades for medium voltage power cable sheathing, incorporating 30% post-consumer recycled (PCR) content. This devel- opment provides a fully formulated natural HDPE solution and achieves a 26% reduction in total CO2 emissions, it said. Additionally, the company offers a non-halogenated FR compound for low and medium voltage sheathing and insulating flexible cables, containing 10% PCR content and enabling an 8% reduction in CO2 emissions. “These com- pounds reflect Cabopol’s commitment to reducing environmental impact while ensuring high safety and performance standards,” the company said. In response to the growth of renewable energy and cable applications in wind turbine systems, solar photovoltaic systems, and electric vehicle charging infrastructure, Cabopol has expanded its product portfolio, production capacity, and technical expertise. The Sofiplus One compound portfolio now includes halogen-free materials for power cables, suitable for curing by e-beam, moisture, or continuous vulcanisation processes. It said these innovations support the durability and performance requirements of cables used in renewable energy systems.
CLICK ON THE LINKS FOR MORE INFORMATION: �
www.albemarle.com �
www.caiadditives.com �
www.elementis.com �
www.tolsa.com �
www.trinseo.com �
www.lgcorp.com �
www.tosaf.com �
https://cabopol.com
www.compoundingworld.com
IMAGE: TOSAF
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