BASF and THOR GmbH Together to Invest in Flame Retardant

By Garvit Vyas , 28 October, 2022

Chemical industry giants BASF and THOR GmbH have recently combined their expertise in non-halogenated flame retardant additives to provide their customers with an inclusive solution that will enhance the sustainability and performance of specific plastic compounds, which will also meet stringent fire safety requirements. Flame retardant is an essential element for plastic components or composites, commonly used in transportation, construction, household, and industrial applications. Accidental heat and flame exposure can lead to severe damage and endanger lives. This has shown increased demand from the global construction and automotive industry combined with stricter fire safety standards. The experts at THOR and BASF in the plastic additive segment have collaborated for many years in developing sophisticated solutions to meet the demanding flame retardant specifications focusing on alternatives to halogen-containing additives.

Both companies are active members of the Phosphorus, Inorganic, and Nitrogen Flame Retardants Association PINFA. They work closely to provide sustainable polymeric systems that withstand ignition and fire propagation during their service life.

Delaware has become the latest US jurisdiction to regulate flame retardants in certain consumer goods. The restrictions will become effective on July 1, 2023

On August 4, 2022, the governor of Delaware signed HB 77 into law to restrict flame retardants (FR) in several consumer product categories. The new law adds Chapter 25G to Subtitle II Title 6 of the Delaware Code.

According to the definitions in the new law, ‘children’s product’ means products designed for residential use by infants and children under 12 years old, including bassinets, booster seats, changing pads, children’s nap mats, floor play mats, highchair pads, infant bouncers, infant carriers, infant seats, infant swings, infant walkers, mattresses, nursing pads, nursing pillows, playpen side pads, play yards, portable hook-on chairs, and strollers.

Flame Retardants in the Atmosphere