Eco-friendly frame-retardant plastics

LG Chem has developed an eco-friendly flame-retardant material that resists burning.

On 12th, LG Chem announced that its PFAS-Free flame-retardant PC/ABS* material, made from recycled plastics, received the V-0 rating in the standard flame-retardant test UL 94 for UL certification in the United States.

*PC/ABS is a plastic that combines PC (Polycarbonate) and ABS (Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene) to significantly enhance heat and abrasion resistance.

The V-0 rating represents the highest level of flame-retardant performance in the industry, requiring the material to extinguish within 10 seconds when a flame is applied vertically. LG Chem is the first to certify a V-0 level or higher flame-retardant performance with a PFAS-free PC/ABS material.

PFAS (perfluoroalkyl substances) are known for their heat resistance and insolubility in water and oil, and are commonly used in cookware, clothing, and cosmetics. However, due to their non-compostable nature and potential environmental impact, there is increasing demand for PFAS-free materials, especially in Europe and the United States.

Through a proprietary flame-retardant process, LG Chem has enhanced the heat resistance of the material without using PFAS. Furthermore, the inclusion of post-consumer recycled material (PCR) reduces carbon emissions. Over half of the material composition is made from recycled plastics, resulting in a 46% reduction in carbon emissions compared to using standard PC/ABS materials.

The PFAS-Free flame-retardant material is expected to be used in a variety of industrial applications, including electronic devices such as laptops and tablets, and equipment (e.g., inverters, electric vehicle chargers), which are in close contact with the body and can generate heat. In addition to PC/ABS, LG Chem has achieved success in developing and obtaining UL certification for various PFAS-free flame-retardant materials, including PC and PBT.

Steven Kim, Executive Vice President of LG Chem’s Engineering Materials Division, stated, “The transition to eco-friendly materials, including PFAS-free flame-retardant plastics, will become a global trend. We will continue our research and development efforts to create eco-friendly and flame-retardant materials that prioritize customer health and the environment.”