HORIZON-JU-CBE-2025-RIA-03_Flame retardants for rubers
ABOUT US
The Catalytic Processes Research Group from Łukasiewicz – ICSO “Blachownia” specializes particularly in technologies utilizing natural raw materials.
Key areas of expertise:
- NATURAL BPA SUBSTITUTES: Development of polycarbonates using bisphenol A (BPA) alternatives derived from natural sources, including high-purity BPA for medical and optical-grade applications.
- INNOVATIVE PLASTICIZERS: Design of advanced, specialized plasticizers for diverse applications, incorporating bio-based raw materials
- HALOGEN-FREE FLAME RETARDANTS: Synthesis of environmentally friendly flame retardants tailored for specific uses, derived from natural resources.
- ESTER AND ETHER DERIVATIVES: Research on esterification and etherification processes for practical applications, utilizing bio-based inputs.
- CHEMICAL RECYCLING OF POLYMERS: Development of innovative recycling methods for waste plastics and polymers, emphasizing sustainable practices.
- BIOTECHNOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS: Use of biocatalysts, such as enzymes, in industrial processes to promote eco-friendly production methods.
OUR IDEA
Our idea is obtaining bio-based non halogenic flame retardants for rubber applications. The idea focuses on the development of halogen-free, non-toxic flame retardants (FRs) derived from natural resources, tailored for rubber applications across various industries, including automotive, construction, industrial, healthcare, and consumer goods. The solution aims to address the pressing need for sustainable, safe, and efficient alternatives to conventional flame retardants, ensuring compliance with EU sustainability regulations and the Regulation on Deforestation-Free Products
Within the scope of the project, the Łukasiewicz – ICSO “Blachownia” team will undertake the following activities:
- Raw Material Selection – Identification and characterization of natural raw materials suitable for the synthesis of flame retardants, focusing on resource efficiency and environmental sustainability.
- Flame Retardant Synthesis – Development of flame retardants through laboratory-scale synthesis, followed by scale-up production to meet industrial requirements.
- Chemical Analytics – Comprehensive analysis of the synthesized flame retardants to confirm their chemical properties, safety, and flame-retardant efficiency when applied to rubber materials
Examples of natural-origin materials with confirmed efficacy as flame retardants for rubber include:
- Chitosan: A biodegradable polysaccharide derived from chitin, found in the exoskeletons of crustaceans. Chitosan has been used to enhance flame retardancy in epoxidized natural rubber composites.
- Tannic Acid: A plant-derived polyphenol known for its ability to promote char formation during pyrolysis. When combined with ammonium polyphosphate, it creates a synergistic flame-retardant system for silicone rubber, reducing its flammability.
- Cyclodextrin: Anatural cyclic oligosaccharide used as a foaming agent in flame-retardant systems. In combination with ammonium polyphosphate, it improves the flame-retardant properties of silicone rubber.
