New Class of Brominated Polymeric Flame Retardants for use in Polystyrene Foams

Flame retardant producers and end users are continually looking for more sustainable solutions through innovation in their customer offerings. Successful solutions need to satisfy a range of characteristics, from processing to technical and environmental performance, which sometimes conflict. This paper covers a new class of brominated polymeric flame retardants designed and developed by The Dow Chemical Company for use in polystyrene foam to meet existing fire and use requirements and have an improved environmental profile to meet regulatory guidelines. An overview of the environmental, health and safety performance of these new polymeric flame retardants will be presented along with preliminary performance data of their use in polystyrene foam.