Clariant Launches melamine-free Flame Retardants

Clariant has introduced a new flame retardant featuring an enhanced sustainability profile, designed for use in polyurethane (PU) and polyisocyanurate (PIR) foam applications. Melamine, a widely used material in fire protection applications, was designated as a Substance of Very High Concern (SVHC) in 2023. In response, Clariant has developed Exolit AP 422 A, a melamine-free alternative. The company stated that it has been developing the new ammonium polyphosphate over the past several years in anticipation of evolving regulatory requirements and increasing scrutiny surrounding the use of melamine.

In 2023, melamine was classified as a Substance of Very High Concern (SVHC) making Exolit AP 422 A a valuable asset for the firestop industry, enabling the creation of coating and sealant products that maintain high performance standards while being SVHC-free. In anticipation of the current and future regulatory challenges around melamine, Clariant has been proactively working on this innovative solution for several years, developing an SVHC-free alternative to the existing Exolit AP 422 flame retardant.

“Exolit AP 422 A upholds the trusted reliability that Exolit products are recognized for in the market and ensures that our clients’ fire protection offerings remain competitive, particularly in terms of chemical compliance,” said Sebastian Moschel, Clariant’s technical business development manager for passive fire protection. “It allows manufacturers to adapt to evolving legislation while preserving the effectiveness of their fire safety solutions.”

The company said it is a suitable replacement for TCPP in pentane-blown PIR and PU rigid foams. B2 ratings according to DIN 4102 can be safely achieved with dosages of 10-15php, depending on the target density. In flexible PU foams made with polyester polyols, its extremely low vapour pressure and low water solubility make it appropriate for low-emission foams in automotive and consumer applications. It can also be used to achieve UL 94 (V0) ratings in rigid integral skin foams, where a further benefit is the fact that it has no unwanted plasticising effect. Additional applications include intumescent coatings and firestop sealing systems. It contains no halogens, further minimising hazardous emissions.

Source: Clariant