HALOGEN-FREE FLAME RETARDANTS FOR WIRE AND CABLE APPLICATIONS

Flame retardants play a very important role in avoiding fire risks in wire and cable applications due to heat generation by current or outside sources. Halogen flame retardants are typically used to ensure good flammability. The halogen flame retardants, however, are under close scrutiny because of their potential to give off corrosive compounds when the materials are burned, as well as other safety, environmental, and health issues. For wire and cable industries, halogen-free flame retardant additives, such as nanoclays, nanotubes, aluminium trihydrate, or magnesium hydroxide are potential alternatives. Types of halogen-free flame retardant additives used in wire and cable constructions are reviewed and discussed.