International. Empa chemists have developed an eco-friendly way to produce flame retardants for foams that can be used in mattresses and upholstery. Two of the research institute's industrial partners are launching innovation on the market.
"Eda-Dopo" will enter series production.
The synthesis method also simplifies the production of other "Dopo" derivatives. Metadynea Austria GmbH will manufacture the material and, if there is sufficient demand, the global Foampartner Group will use it to produce flame retardant polyurethane foams for upholstery and mattresses. Since the new derivative production method "Dopo" was patented in June 2017, Metadynea Austria has already produced around 1.5 tons of flame retardant.
This is the first step in replacing conventional halogenated flame retardants, which are sometimes toxic and emit toxic gases in the event of a fire. "Eda-Dopo", a derivative of the familiar flame retardant Dopo (9,10-dihydro-10-oxa-phosphophenanttraxide), does not emit these toxins. In addition, the foam material containing this flame retardant satisfies the highest flame retardant rating (UL 94 HB). The product was developed in a two-year research project within the scope of the Eureka Suspur project.
Although the production of foam with the new flame retardant is already underway, the products containing the product will not yet be on sale; the flame retardant is being certified in accordance with the European chemical standard Reach. Currently produced foam samples undergo various flame tests to allow new flame retardant foams to reach global markets as quickly as possible once they obtain their certification.
Fireproof upholstery is especially mandatory for areas where many people gather: planes, trains, buses, hotels and restaurants. Flame retardants prevent materials from lighting up, such as with cigarettes or vandals. However, environmental standards remain strict here as well. Consequently, there is a growing need for modern and harmless alternatives around the world.
Source: www.eurekanetwork.org
