Ticona Introduces Two New Riteflex XF Grades: Free From Halogenated Flame Retardants

Tue, 22 July 2008

Ticona Engineering Polymers today announced the addition of two new Riteflex® thermoplastic polyester elastomer (TPC-ET) grades to its portfolio of XFR™ halogen-free flame retardant polyesters for use in eco-friendly applications.

“Continuing the halogen-free direction Ticona started in thermoplastic polyester (PBT) withCelanex® XFR, we designed our two new Riteflex XFR grades to help customers comply with anticipated hazardous substance restrictions and waste directives,” said Pete Bombik, Polyester Global Business director for Ticona.

Regulations such as the Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive (RoHS) and the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (WEEE) already severely restrict the use of brominated flame retardants (FR) in electrical and electronic applications, a key end-use application for engineering polyesters.

“The plastics industry is evaluating alternate flame-retardant additives for use in electrical and electronic applications that face stringent FR requirements,” said Bombik. “Ticona uses an innovative halogen- and antimony-free flame retardant system in its XFR product line to replace conventional FRs, which actually enhance the performance of the engineering polymers while making them more eco-friendly.”