WHY USE FLAME-RETARDANT ADDITIVES FOR PLASTICS?
Once some polymers ignite, they can produce flammable gases that can fuel a fire even further. Incorporating flame-retardant additives into plastics can inhibit, suppress or delay combustion, stopping ignition events from turning into larger fires and leaving more time for people to escape and firefighters to respond. Americhem offers a broad line of flame-retardant additives for polyethylene and other plastics. We work with our customers to fulfill all their end goals, tailoring our flame-retardant products with custom color compounding and functional technology solutions.
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FLAME-RETARDANT SOLUTIONS FOR MULTIPLE INDUSTRIES
Americhem’s flame-retardant polymer additives are used by manufacturers worldwide in building materials, electronics, fibers, furniture, medical housings, automotive and aerospace markets. In the large truck and rail industry, our flame-retardant automotive compounds elevate safety across vehicle interiors and exteriors and provide performance that operators can count on for the long haul.
COMPLETE TESTING SERVICES
Americhem ensures our masterbatch and compounded performance materials meet broad requirements for flammability. We are thoroughly experienced in performing in-house flammability testing to UL94 standards using state-of-the-art equipment that is regularly calibrated and inspected for safety and accurate results. We also conduct FAR 25.853 vertical flame testing to determine the flammability of aircraft interior materials as required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). More intense flame testing, such as E84, OSU and NFPA, is outsourced to certified testing laboratories.
BEST PRACTICES FOR CUSTOM DEVELOPMENT
To meet challenging design, regulatory and performance requirements, Americhem’s materials science experts carefully evaluate each project application before any design process occurs. Our flame-retardant additives are developed to suit particular polymers and meet appropriate flammability tests. We consider any standards such as UL94, E84, MVSS 302, ASTM or VW-1 that must be met, as well as RoHS and REACH compliance factors. Mechanical properties, direct exposure to sunlight and spark risk are also essential criteria that influence our formulations. While there are no universal flame-retardant additives for plastics, Americhem does offer various off-the-shelf polymer additives that are UL-listed. Through extensive analysis, we can predict candidate solutions and advise on any cost and performance tradeoffs.
THE LATEST FLAME-RETARDANT TECHNOLOGIES
Flame retardants are classified as halogenated flame retardants (HFRs) or non-halogenated flame retardants (NHFRs). HFRs are typically bromide-based and are widely used because of their low impact on other materials and low load levels needed to meet required flammability standards. Companies looking for more environmentally friendly options often request NHFRs, which are generally phosphorus-based and non-toxic. Newer “green” chemistries employing mineral-based additives are also rising in demand. Americhem offers a wide range of the latest flame-resistant additive technologies with accompanying synergists to boost effectiveness. Our experts can help you determine the most suitable approach for your product and brand.
COLLABORATE WITH AMERICHEM TODAY
If you want to decrease your plastic materials’ ability to ignite, collaborate with Americhem for flame-retardant solutions that protect end-users and fuel your competitive advantage. Let us demonstrate how we can impart proven additive technologies that meet the specific requirements of your application. Contact Americhem today to learn more.