The Difference Between Halogenated Flame Retardant And Non-halogenated Flame Retardant

What's the difference between halogenated flame retardant and non-halogenated flame retardant?

Halogenated and non-halogenated(also called Halogen-Free) flame retardants differ in their chemical composition, flame retardant mechanisms, flame retardant effect, and environmental impact. The detailed explanation is as follows: 

1. Chemical Composition: halogen content 

• Halogenated Flame Retardants: These flame retardants contain elements from the halogen group, such as chlorine, bromine, or fluorine, bromine and chlorine are often used in the production of industrial flame retardants. Commonly used types include Decabromodiphenyl ether (DBDPO), Decabromodiphenyl Ethane(DBDE), and Antimony Trioxide, which is commonly called Brominated & Antimony flame retardant.

• Non-halogenated Flame Retardants: These flame retardants do not contain halogen or contain extremely low halogen elements. They are typically based on alternative chemical formulations, such as phosphorus, nitrogen, and mineral-based compounds.
  

2. Fire Retardant Mechanisms: 

• Halogenated Flame Retardants: Halogenated flame retardants function by releasing halogen radicals when exposed to fire. These radicals interrupt the combustion process by inhibiting the formation of flammable gases and slowing down the spread of flames.

• Non-halogenated Flame Retardants: Non-halogenated flame retardants work through different mechanisms, such as char formation, dilution of combustible gases, and cooling effects. They aim to suppress or delay the ignition and combustion of materials without relying on halogen radicals.

3. Flame retardant effect:

• Halogenated Flame Retardants: High effectiveness in suppressing fire and reducing flame spread, great thermal stability, low dosage, good compatibility with synthetic resin materials, can maintain the original physical and chemical properties of flame retardant added products.

• Non-halogenated Flame Retardants: Undergone special surface treatment, it is easy to disperse in plastic materials, do not precipitate, compatible with various materials and processes, making them suitable for a wide range of applications.

4. Environmental Impact:

• Halogenated Flame Retardants: Materials made with halogen-containing flame retardants will produce a lot of smoke and toxic corrosive hydrogen halide gas when heated, which will cause secondary hazards. The gas can persist in the environment for long periods, hindering fire fighting and personnel evacuation, and may also pose risks to human beings and ecosystems.

• Non-halogenated Flame Retardants: Non-halogenated flame retardants are generally considered to have a lower environmental impact. Compared to certain halogenated counterparts, it produces less smoke produced and exhibits lower toxic and corrosive gas during the material combustion period.

Here is a basic comparison table for you to learn the both advantages of non-halogenated flame retardant and halogenated flame retardant.



Due to the governments’ increasing requirements and standards for environmental protection, and the gradual improvement and issuance of laws and regulations on the use of flame retardant products, there has been a growing preference for non-halogenated flame retardants as alternatives to halogenated ones in many applications. Non-halogenated flame retardants offer improved environmental profiles while still providing effective fire protection. Mei Wang Chemical remains committed to investing in the R&D of halogen-free flame retardants and their application technology. Furthermore, we are actively exploring the market demands and addressing industry challenges to provide effective solutions.