Clariant and Italmatch Chemicals have both announced investments in phosphorus-based flame retardants in China in the past two weeks as demand continues to grow from growth in the use of engineering plastics in the e-mobility, 5G communications, transportation, and electrical and electronic segments.

A new study led by Dr Thomas G. Osimitz has concluded that smoke from the combustion of flame-retarded furnishings did not enhance potential chronic toxicity hazards, including cancer. Campaigners have repeatedly claimed that flame retardants in home furnishings and electronics increase the toxicity of smoke produced during combustion in house fires, thus putting firefighters at risk of major long-term health problems.

Clariant is to build its first Chinese production facility for Exolit OP range of aluminum diethyl-phosphinate flame retardants. This will supply the electrical and electronic equipment industries, in particular e-mobility, 5G communications technology and transportation in China and other Asian markets.

Dr Kevin Bradley, secretary general of the International Bromine Council, takes a look at how brominated flame retardant manufacturers and their associations are addressing the challenges arising from public policy and new business models driving the Circular Economy