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FLAME RETARDANTS
Figure 1 - Heat release rate of HFFR & halogenated FR
trend is shifting towards halogenfree formulations , especially in Europe and the US .
Uniform dispersion of FRs in the PE foam matrix is crucial for consistent and reliable fire resistance . Halogenfree FRs may have different processing requirements , thus requiring careful consideration during manufacturing to achieve optimal dispersion and compatibility .
Halogen-free FRs masterbatches offer many advantages in PE foams , such as a gentler energetic profile of combustion , reduced smoke generation and reduced smoke toxicity . They also enable compliance with strict fire safety standards . Unlike halogen-based FRs , which are mostly based on filler-type materials , halogenfree options are based on miscible materials , requiring manufacturers to update the nucleating package and to adjust the foaming agent and process accordingly .
Tosaf ’ s new FR9185PE EU , a phosphorus-based FR , is suitable for both non-crosslinked and crosslinked PE foams . It initiates a gaseous mechanism in the event of fire , terminating combustion by reacting with the free radicals formed during the combustion process . FR9185PE EU requires only 10-15 % dosage to achieve efficient performance .
Advanced HFFR additives
The demand for incorporating highly effective flame retardant ( HFFR ) additives in various products , including home appliances , surfaces and white goods , is witnessing a significant surge . With the impending enforcement of a stricter UL-94 classification in 2024 , which mandates adherence to 5VA performance for white goods and electronic products , the performance expectations for new flame retardants are set to rise .
Tosaf ’ s FR2655 additive , based on an advanced intumescence mechanism , offers excellent FR performance that surpasses the strict standards . Achieving this necessitates the addition of relatively higher percentages , typically ranging from 30 % to 35 %.
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Table 1 shows the advantages of using halogen-free over halogenated FR masterbatch . As shown in Figures 1 and 2 , the smoke production rate decreased by 70 % when using FR2655 at 35 %, and the heat release rate ( HRR ) is significantly lower in comparison with halogen-based FRs .
Tosaf compounds based on similar active raw materials make it possible to gain full control of all properties of the final product , including mechanical properties , colour stabilisation and other critical factors . This is achieved without compromising the FR performance , the V0 rating . These compounds find wide applicability in electrical boxes , electrical and electronic equipment , and home appliances .
New plant
To meet the growing demand for FRs , Tosaf has invested in a new production facility . A laboratory with state-ofthe-art equipment is available for testing in accordance with a wide range of fire standards , including a cone calorimeter for full combustion analysis . In addition , the company has established pilot lines that simulate real production conditions and allow additives to be tailored for specific applications . ●
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Oren Moshe
BUSINESS UNIT MANAGER , FLAME RETARDANTS
TOSAF
Smoke production
orenm @ tosaf . com www . tosaf . com
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� Halogen FR2655-30 % FR2655-35 %
Figure 2 - Smoke production of HFFR & halogenated FR
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