The growing demand for safe, lightweight, and flame-resistant certified materials has led to the development of flame-retardant polypropylene (PP) compounds for numerous technical, industrial, and civil applications.
Among these, LATENE 7H2W-V0 represents an advanced solution that combines UL94 V0 level flame-retardant properties, thermal stability up to 115 °C, and absence of halogenated additives, ensuring safety, reliability, and environmental sustainability.
Application: Protective Domes for Spotlights and Thermal Insulation
The British company Thermahood, based in Northern Ireland, has chosen the LATENE 7H2W-V0 flame-retardant polypropylene compound to create its protective domes for attic spotlights.
These thermoplastic components are used to improve the thermal insulation of coverings and prevent heat loss and air infiltration through the openings for spotlights.
Function and Technical Advantages of the Design
Thermahood domes, molded in certified flame-retardant polypropylene, combine a functional and lightweight design with a material that ensures:
- Hermetic seal and optimal insulation;
- Condensation prevention due to water vapor transmission in attic voids;
- Fire safety certified UL94 V0;
- Thermal and mechanical durability even in high-temperature environments.
Thanks to these characteristics, the LATENE 7H2W-V0 compound allows for the production of construction and plant engineering components that meet the most stringent safety and quality standards.
Properties of the LATENE 7H2W-V0 Compound
The LATENE 7H2W-V0 is a flame-retardant polypropylene developed to ensure consistent performance over time and controlled flame-retardant behavior even in thin applications.
| Technical property | Typical value | Description |
| Polymer base | Polypropylene (PP) | Low-density thermoplastic material |
| Flame-retardant class | UL94 V0 (thickness 0.75 mm) | Rapid extinguishing without dripping |
| Continuous operating temperature | 115 °C | Long-term thermal stability |
| Relative Thermal Index (RTI) | UL Certified | Stable physical properties over time |
| Flame retardant additives | Halogen-free | Compliant with RoHS and REACH |
| Certifications | UL Yellow Card | International compliance with safety requirements |
| Environmental management | ISO 14001 | Low environmental impact production |
Certifications and Compliance
The LATENE 7H2W-V0 compound has obtained the UL 94 Yellow Card certification, which attests to its V0 flame-retardant class even for reduced thicknesses (up to 0.75 mm).
This certification is essential for all components intended for electrical systems, lighting, construction, and automotive, where the risk of fire is a primary safety parameter.
In addition to UL 94, the material complies with:
- the RoHS directive, which limits the use of hazardous substances;
- the REACH regulation, for health and environmental protection;
- the ISO 14001 certification, which ensures sustainable environmental management.
Why Choose a Flame-Retardant Polypropylene Compound
The use of flame-retardant PP as an alternative to more expensive engineering polymers allows for an excellent balance between performance, cost, and sustainability.
| Advantage | Description |
| Reduced weight | Density less than 1 g/cm³, ideal for lightweight components |
| Fire safety | UL94 V0 class, even in thin walls |
| Thermal resistance | Up to 115 °C in continuous operation |
| Ease of molding | Suitable for standard injection processes |
| Halogen-free | Greater safety and environmental respect |
| Cost-effectiveness | Excellent cost/performance ratio |
Industrial Applications
The Flame-retardant polypropylene compounds are used in numerous sectors where flame resistance is required without compromising workability:
- Lighting → shells, covers, and diffusers for spotlights and lamps;
- Construction and plant engineering → thermal insulation systems and attic domes;
- Electrical panels and electronic components → housings, covers, separators;
- Automotive and transport → flame-resistant internal parts;
- Technical furniture → functional and structural elements at risk of overheating.
Sustainability and Environmental Safety
The LATENE 7H2W-V0 is formulated without halogenated flame retardants, reducing environmental impact and the risk of toxic smoke emissions in case of fire.
Production compliant with ISO 14001 ensures low-impact processes, in line with European strategies for the circular economy.
Comparison: Flame-retardant PP vs Traditional Engineering Polymers
| Feature | Flame-retardant PP (LATENE 7H2W-V0) | PA66 / PC / PBT flame-retardant |
| Specific weight | 0.9–1.0 g/cm³ | 1.2–1.4 g/cm³ |
| UL94 class | V0 at 0.75 mm | V0 at 1.0–1.5 mm |
| Material cost | Low | Medium/high |
| Halogen-free | ✔️ | Variable |
| Thermal resistance | Good (115 °C) | Excellent (up to 150 °C) |
| Recyclability | High | Medium |
| Typical applications | Construction, electrical, lighting | Electronics, technical automotive |
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Flame-Retardant PP Compounds
- What does UL94 V0 mean?
It is the highest classification for flame-retardant materials: the sample extinguishes in less than 10 seconds and does not produce flaming drips. - Do flame-retardant PP compounds contain halogenated substances?
No. The LATENE 7H2W-V0 is halogen-free, compliant with RoHS and REACH directives. - Is it possible to use flame-retardant PP for structural components?
Yes, thanks to its dimensional and thermal stability up to 115 °C, it is suitable for lightweight and insulating technical components.
Conclusion
Flame-retardant polypropylene compounds like LATENE 7H2W-V0 offer an optimal balance between mechanical performance, fire safety, and environmental sustainability.
Ideal for electrical, lighting, and architectural applications, they represent a reliable solution for those seeking UL94 V0 certified and halogen-free materials.
Do you want to identify the most suitable flame-retardant compound for your design needs?
Request a LATI technical consultation to explore the features of LATENE 7H2W-V0 and its application variants for your sector.
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