Every day we are surrounded by polymer products that contain flame retardants. Nearly all polymer materials must consider flame retardants in their formulations whether they are required for consumer safety purposes or to protect the integrity of the product. Flame retardants may slow down or even interrupt the combustion process by physical or chemical action in the solid, liquid or gas phase. They interfere during heating, decomposition, ignition, or flame spread with the course of the fire. For example, in the solid phase, the flame retardant forms a carbonaceous layer on the surface of the polymer by dehydration. The carbonized layer not only prevents further pyrolysis of the polymer, but also prevents internal thermal decomposition products from entering the gas phase and participating in the combustion process. In short, the use of flame retardants is critical for polymer products.
For its wide applications in polymers, flame retardant must fulfill the following characteristics.
Flame retardants have been used in many consumers and industrial products to decrease the ability of materials to ignite since the 1970s. Flame retardants are often added to the following products.
Furnishings
Adding flame retardants to furniture such as foam, upholstery, mattresses, carpets, curtains, and fabric blinds can provide an extra layer of fire protection and can increase critical escape time in the event of a fire.
Building and construction materials
Flame retardants used in building and construction materials such as wires and cables provide additional fire protection.
Transportation
From airplanes to cars to trains, flame retardants can play a key role in protecting travelers from the devastation of fire.
Electronics and electrical devices
Most electronics and electrical devices contain 1 to 9 kg of plastic materials, which are easily ignited when in contact with internal and external electrical currents and heat sources. Without flame retardants so much plastic can release as much heat as 0.6 to 6 liters of gasoline. Flame retardants can enable modern electronic equipment to meet fire safety standards and can be vital to the safety of hundreds of these products.
Alfa Chemistry has developed a range of flame retardants to meet customer's various of needs. We will serve you with the most abundant experience and affordable price. If you have any problems, we will provide technical support and develop a unique solution for you. Please don't hesitate to contact us.
