The Introduction of Flame Retardant

What is flame retardant?
Definition.
Flame retardant is a kind of chemical additive or substance that is used to inhibit or slow down the spread of fire. They are added to various materials, such as textiles, plastics, foams, and coatings, to reduce their flammability and improve their resistance to ignition, combustion, and flame spread.

The role of flame retardant in fire safety.
Fire safety is of paramount importance in our lives, flame retardants play a vital role in fire safety by inhibiting or delaying the spread of fires. They are designed to reduce the flammability of materials, giving people more time to escape, minimizing property damage, and improving overall fire safety.

 The development and utilization of effective flame retardant technologies continue to play a vital role in enhancing fire protection measures and creating safer environments for human beings.



How does flame retardant work?

There are so many kinds of flame retardants, the specific mechanism depends on the type of flame retardant used. Here are some common ways flame retardants work:

Heat-absorbing effect: Flame retardants can absorb part of heat energy from the fire, thus reducing the temperature of the material. This slows down the degradation and pyrolysis processes, making it harder for the material to ignite.

Covering effect: Forming a covering or protective layer on the material’s surface under high temperature, It has the function of heat and oxygen insulation, then the combustion process is hindered and the fire spread is slowed down or even extinguished.

Inhibition of chain reaction: According to the chain reaction theory of combustion, what is needed to maintain combustion is free radicals. In the gas phase combustion zone, Some flame retardants act as radical scavengers, intercepting and neutralizing free radicals generated during combustion reaction, so as to prevent the spread of the flame and reduce the flame density in the combustion zone.

Gas Phase Inhibition: Flame retardants can chemically react with flammable gases released during combustion. These reactions interfere with the combustion process by reducing the concentration of flammable gases and interrupting the chain reaction necessary for sustained combustion.

Classifications of flame retardants

Flame retardants can be classified based on various criteria, including their chemical composition, mode of action, and application. Here are some common classifications of flame retardants:

According to the relationship between flame retardants and the applied material, it can be divided into additive flame retardant and reactive flame retardant.

1. Additive Flame Retardants: Additive flame retardants are incorporated into the material as additives. They are blended or mixed with the polymer to enhance its flame retardant properties. Additive flame retardants can be further classified based on their chemical composition, such as halogenated or non-halogenated additives, organic and inorganic flame retardant. At present, its usage accounts for 80% and 90% of the total FR.

2. Reactive Flame Retardants: Reactive flame retardants are chemically bonded to the polymer matrix. They are incorporated during the manufacturing process and become an integral part of the material, providing long-lasting flame retardancy.

According to the chemical composition, it can be divided into halogenated and non-halogenated or halogen-free flame retardants.

1. Halogenated flame retardants are currently the largest in terms of production and usage among organic flame retardants worldwide. The most widely used halogenated flame retardants are brominated and chlorinated FR.

Key features: High flame retardant efficiency, low dosage, moderate price, good thermal stability and great compatibility with synthetic resin materials, can maintain the original physical and chemical properties.

2. Non-Halogenated Flame Retardants mainly include 4 types:

• Phosphorus-based flame retardants (e.g., phosphates, phosphinates)
• Nitrogen-based flame retardants (e.g., melamine, MCA-melamine cyanurate)
• Mineral-based flame retardants (e.g., ATH-aluminum hydroxide, MDH-magnesium hydroxide)
• Inorganic flame retardants (e.g., borates, ATO-antimony trioxide, inorganic phosphorus series: red phosphorus, APP)

Key advantages: More green, better dispersion, good water resistance, low smoke, non-toxic, no corrosive gas, etc.  

Applications of flame retardants

The applications of flame retardants encompass a wide range of industries and play an integral role in safeguarding lives and property from fire-related risks. As technology advances and fire safety regulations continue to evolve, flame retardants remain an essential component in protecting us from the devastating consequences of fire incidents, there are some industries that benefit from using flame retardants as mentioned below:

1. Electronics and Appliances

In an era dominated by electronic devices, the incorporation of flame retardants in electronics and appliances has become imperative. Flame retardants ensure that these devices meet strict safety standards and regulatory requirements. They are used in components, casings, and insulation materials to minimize fire hazards caused by electrical malfunctions, overheating, or short circuits, enhancing both consumer and workplace safety.

Applied ranges:

• Electronic devices, such as computer casings, connectors, and circuit boards.
• Flame retardant coatings for cables and wires used in home appliances.
• Flame retardant encapsulation materials for batteries and power storage devices

2. Transportation and Automotive Industry

Flame retardants are essential in the transportation sector for vehicles, aircraft, and ships. They are used in various applications such as seat cushions, carpets, wiring insulation, and paneling to prevent or delay fire spread in case of accidents or mechanical failures. Flame retardants contribute to safer transportation by allowing time for evacuation and firefighting.

Applied ranges:

• Interior components of automobiles, such as seating, dashboard, and carpeting.
• Flame retardant additives in insulation materials for aircraft and railway vehicles.
• Flame retardant coatings for cables, wiring, and engine components.

3. Construction and Building Materials

Flame retardants are extensively used in materials such as insulation foams, coatings, adhesives, cables, etc.

Applied ranges:

• Flame retardant additives in polystyrene insulation boards used in exterior walls.
• Flame retardant coatings for wooden structures, fabric and other combustible surfaces.
• Flame retardant compounds used in fire-resistant doors and window frames.

4. Textiles and Furnishings

The textile industry heavily relies on flame retardants to manufacture fire-resistant fabrics used in various applications. These flame-resistant textiles are especially critical in public spaces, hotels, hospitals, and transportation sectors, where large numbers of people gather. Flame retardants are also applied in protective clothing for firefighters and workers in high-risk environments, where their exceptional fire resistance can be a matter of life or death.

Applied ranges:

• Flame retardant fabrics used in upholstery, curtains, mattresses, clothing and bedding
• Flame retardant treatments for carpets, rugs, and drapes.
• Flame retardants In foam cushions, seating materials, and insulation used in furniture.
  
  

The trend of flame retardant

Due to concerns over environmental persistence and potential health effects, in recent years, the non-halogenated flame retardants have been gaining significant popularity as alternatives to halogenated flame retardants. Regulatory measures and voluntary initiatives are driving the adoption of alternatives.

Reference research by Data Bridge: https://www.databridgemarketresearch.com/reports/global-halogen-free-flame-retardant-market

Meanwhile, there is growing interest in developing flame retardants that have minimal environmental impact throughout their lifecycle. This includes considering factors such as raw material sourcing, production methods, and end-of-life disposal or recycling. This is not only a challenge for flame retardant manufacturers, but also an opportunity for the development of the industry.

Overall, the development trend of flame retardant will definitely be focused on these keywords: Green, eco-friendly and sustainable.

Mei Wang Chemical, a leading manufacturer of non-halogenated flame retardant in Asia, is dedicated to providing customers with superior products and innovative application technology solutions. Our mission is to contribute to the safety of humanity, making a positive impact on fire safety.