Clariant launches high-efficiency non-halogenated flame retardants for transport and construction applications

Effectiveness: only ca. 50% loading compared to conventional flame retardants
Versatile liquid type avoids migration and resin separation in large-size applications

Muttenz, March 27, 2012 - Clariant launches a novel, sustainable solution to achieving high fire safety levels for transport and construction applications, with its pioneering new Exolit® EP non-halogenated flame retardants for epoxy resins.

Exolit EP 150 and EP 200 are reactive phosphorus-based flame retardants that provide highly-effective fire protection at low dosage levels for epoxy thermosets and laminates. Currently available as laboratory product samples, they create exciting potential for parts manufacturers in these sectors to improve their efficiency and transition towards non-halogenated flame retardants.

The ground-breaking Exolit EP grades have unmatched high phosphorus contents of 25% and 29% respectively, which enables only a low dosage of flame retardant to be used to reach the desired protection effect. Their performance is proven in electrical and electronics (E&E) applications, where UL 94 V0 fire ratings can be achieved at a loading of only 50% of conventional flame retardants.

Exolit EP 150 and EP 200 do not migrate out of the resin material. They bind with the polymer and ensure minimal impact on material properties. Processing and handling are also made easier because the flame retardant becomes part of the resin.

Exolit EP 150 is a low viscosity liquid, which makes it suitable as a flame retardant for infiltration processes. The liquid format is of particular significance for large-size applications, such as structural parts for airplanes or ships, where the ability to flow evenly across a large distance without separating or filtering from the glass fiber or carbon fiber, is critical for effective, long-term performance. While Exolit EP 200 is available in solid form, it will melt at higher processing temperatures to provide the same user benefit.

Exolit EP 150 and EP 200 are the latest additions to Clariant’s highly-regarded Exolit non-halogenated range, known for its total resin flame retardant integrity even under harsh conditions and in sophisticated applications. They will be showcased at the JEC Europe Composites Show in Paris, Hall 1, Booth R4, from March 27-29, 2012 alongside Clariant’s innovative Exolit OP and AP grades under the motto: “Closing the Loop – Safety and Sustainability.”

“Clariant is committed to support the increasing need for safe fire protection based on environmentally-compatible and sustainable solutions. With our new Exolit products we make our best effort to capture these requirements in application-specific grades”, comments Adrian Beard, head of flame retardants marketing, Clariant. “We see exciting potential for the new efficiency-boosting Exolit EP within the transport and construction sectors, in addition to the E&E sector, and we have already begun the up-scaling process for commercial production in line with this.”