Clariant increases the capacity of sustainable flame-retardant solutions in its Daya Bay facility in China with CHF 100 million investment, with the second production line fully operational in November.

Clariant’s new production line in Daya Bay, China.

This expansion strengthens Clariant’s ability to meet growing demand for more sustainable flame-retardant solutions in Asia and globally, particularly in the rapidly expanding e-mobility sector.

In addition, Clariant announced the expansion of its Exolit OP flame retardant portfolio with two new high-performance solutions – Exolit OP 1242 (TP) and Exolit OP 1266 (TP) – specifically designed for polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) applications in e-mobility.

New flame retardant solutions meeting critical e-mobility challenges

The new Exolit OP flame retardants address two critical challenges in e-mobility applications.

Exolit OP 1242 (TP) offers exceptional hydrolysis stability, while Exolit OP 1266 (TP) provides a stable comparative tracking index (CTI) of 600 V even after extended storage periods. Both products meet the UL 94 vertical test with V-0 classification down to a sample thickness of 0.4 mm at dosing levels of 15-20%.

These innovations are particularly significant as the e-mobility industry transitions to higher voltage systems of 800 V and above, requiring materials with superior electrical insulation properties and long-term stability under demanding conditions.

The new halogen-free flame retardants offer manufacturers an attractive alternative to traditional systems based on antimony trioxide (ATO), which has experienced supply chain volatility in recent years.

Expanding Exolit AP portfolio

Clariant has also developed Exolit AP 422 A in response to the tightening regulations and melamine being classified as a Substance of Very High Concern (SVHC) under EU REACH.

Exolit AP 422 A is a halogen-free ammonium polyphosphate flame retardant with an improved sustainability profile for use in insulation materials, composites and intumescent coatings. It is SVHC-free according to Article 31 of the REACH Regulation as it contains less than 0.1% melamine.

In polyurethane foam applications, this versatile flame retardant serves as an effective replacement for TCPP (tris(chloropropyl) phosphate) and TEP (triethyl phosphate), providing robust flame retardancy without unwanted plasticizing effects.

With improved powder flowability for more efficient production handling, Exolit AP 422 A enables customers to create safer, more sustainable building materials that align with evolving regulatory requirements.