Tolsa Presents an Effective Solution for the Replacement of PTFE in Flame Retardancy of PP, PVC and Nylons

Spain’s Tolsa (U.S. office in Casper, Wy.), is positioning its Adins Clay range of flame-retardant additives as a viable anti-dripping mechanism replacement for PTFE in polymer formulations including those based on PP, PVC, nylons, EVA, TPEs/TPUs and silicones. Industry applications include wire and cable, electrical and electronics, construction (pipes, insulating foams, etc.), and transportation.

Use of drip suppressants or anti-dripping agents is needed in both halogen and halogen-free formulations and PTFE has been a commonly used drip suppressant as it forms a network structure through shearing-induced fibrillation to effectively reduce dripping. In dosages of 0.5wt% in the whole flame retardant system, PTFE improves FR performance to V0 rating in the UL94 test. However, controversy regarding the health risks of this class of “Forever Chemicals” called PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) includes the surfactants used to produce PTFE.

The Adins Clay series additives are magnesium silicates modified in their surface with organic compounds to ease dispersion in polymeric matrices. The needle-like structure is said to reinforce the consistency of the char, improving its properties and its gas barrier capabilities. This enhanced char decreases heat release and flame propagation, and also reduces smoke emissions and dripping (anti-dripping effect), benefits that can be demonstrated using standard fire behavior characterization test methods such as UL-94, LOI and Cone Calorimeter. These additives also meet increasingly stringent regulations as well as environmental, health and safety standards that are directly influencing the demand for alternative and safe materials.