From short-circuit protection to smoke toxicity reduction: how flame-retardant materials can ensure safety
Most plastics are inherently combustible.
This means that, in the presence of a sufficiently energetic ignition source, polymers can catch fire and the flame can be self-sustaining, thus giving rise to potentially dangerous fire outbreaks.
For this reason, in high-risk sectors such as electrical, railway, and household appliances, the use of plastic materials must comply with strict safety standards. Flame-retardant compounds represent a fundamental solution to ensure the safety of products and applications subject to thermal and electrical stress.
Plastic materials are widely used in contexts where high electrical voltages and temperatures are present, and to prevent dangerous situations, each sector has developed specific regulations aimed at optimizing the performance and suitability of polymers.
Electronics and Appliances: Short-Circuit Resistance
In electronic devices and household appliances, safety involves rigorous testing that also evaluates a material’s ability to resist an incandescent metal wire, simulating a possible short circuit. This prevents accidental fires caused by current spikes or overheating.
E-mobility and Automotive: Protection against Electrical Risk
With the growing adoption of electric mobility, flame-retardant plastic materials play a crucial role in protecting batteries and high-voltage components. The solutions employed must ensure thermal stability, resistance to high temperatures and tracking currents.
Railway Transport: Focus on Smoke Toxicity and Opacity
In the railway sector, the main risk is not only the flammability of materials but also the optical density and toxicity of smoke generated in case of fire. For this reason, regulations require the use of plastic materials with low emission of harmful substances to ensure passenger safety.
The use of flame-retardant materials is an essential requirement to ensure safety and regulatory compliance in sectors most exposed to fire risk. Thanks to research and innovation in technical polymers, it is now possible to design components that are safer, more reliable, and compliant with the most stringent international regulations.
Discover LATI’s wide range of UL-certified flame-retardant materials, also available in versions made from recycled materials, with advanced technical characteristics for the most demanding applications.
Accessibility Statement