LANXESS launches new flame retardant for insulation materials
LANXESS is launching Purventis, a new flame-retardant platform for insulation material solutions.
The first commercial product under the platform is Purventis Core, a reactive halogen-free phosphorus flame retardant for rigid polyurethane (PU) and polyisocyanurate (PIR) insulation foams.
Purventis Core addresses the growing need among polyol formulators, PU systems houses, and producers of insulation boards or spray foams, to combine fire performance, lower emissions, processing practicality and long-term regulatory resilience in PU/PIR insulation systems.
Insulation panels are among the main applications for Purventis Core.
Reactive chemistry for changing insulation requirements
Purventis Core is based on the technology previously marketed as LANXESS’ Levagard 2100, and designed as a low-viscosity, non-halogen, non-aromatic, TPP- and phenol-free reactive phosphorus flame retardant.
Unlike other additive flame retardants, it chemically bonds into the polyurethane matrix. This approach is intended to help producers prepare for reformulation, requalification and specification changes while maintaining the performance profile required in rigid PU/PIR insulation.
“Purventis builds on a technology our customers know and addresses the questions that are becoming more important in PU and PIR insulation: regulatory resilience, low emissions, documentation and reliable foam performance,” commented Heiko Tebbe, Head of Application Development Polymer Additives at LANXESS.
Test data support lower emissions and reduced input levels
In tests, Purventis Core showed no contribution to total volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, proving that the product is incorporated into the polymer. The technology also offers high flame-retardant efficiency compared with TCPP and TEP.
LANXESS test data also show that Purventis Core supports mechanical foam performance keeping foam stiffer than solutions with conventional flame retardants.
By building on well-established technology for its Purventis platform, LANXESS is sharpening its offering for insulation producers preparing their PU/PIR portfolios for evolving regulatory and market requirements.
