Advanced Copolymeric Flame Retardants for E/E Market

The first of a new line of advanced copolymeric flame retardants for the consumer electronics and appliance industry from FRX Innovations is said to expand the capabilities of the company’s Nofia family of non-halogen, polymeric flame retardants and eliminate the need for drying. prior to processing. Nofia CO6010-EX polyphosphonate fills a gap in the current portfolio by targeting a growing need for PC, PC/ABS, and PC/ASA in applications where neither brominated flame retardants or perfluoro butyl sulfonates can be used.

In addition to no pre-drying, this new range also boasts much lower initial color. The exceptional heat distortion and physical properties of Nofia flame retardants have long been desirable in UL94 V0, or VTM-0 formulations, but now processing is simpler, impact resistance is improved, and the new material offers the ability to meet the bluer shades of white required for certain brands of electronic equipment and electrical appliances. Like other Nofia FRs, Nofia CO6010-EX reportedly provides improved resistance to chemical cleaners and permanence when compared to traditional, non-polymeric, phosphorus-based flame retardants.

Said FRX Innovations’ CEO Marc Lebel, “Polycarbonate has been a polymer of high interest due to restrictions announced in Europe and the U.S. on the future use of brominated FRs in enclosures for TVs and monitors, and the high probability that those restrictions will soon be broadened to enclosures for most indoor electrical equipment.” There have also been added concerns about per- and poly-fluorinated additives, so-called “Forever Chemicals.” The commonly used flame retardant KPFBS is one such chemical, and already brand owners and OEMs are looking for alternatives, according to Lebel. He noted that that non-halogen composition is only part of the story, as polymeric additives such as Nofia have been shown to be inherently safer than smaller molecules and offer enhanced physical properties.