Description:
Reference Number:1684
Introduction
Researchers at the University of Strathclyde’s Department of Pure and Applied
Chemistry have developed eco-friendly fire retardant polyurethane foams. The
main benefits of the technology include increased effectiveness in the
prevention and spread of fire; and the use of environmentally friendly non-toxic
materials. The technology is relatively inexpensive in comparison to existing
formulations, and is readily adoptable into existing manufacturing processes.
These foams can be used in many industries including furniture and soft
furnishings, construction, packaging, automotive and aeronautics.
Current Challenge Facing the Industry
Many industries use products and materials produced using flexible
polyurethane foam that, in the event of a fire, can ignite and burn rapidly,
thus spreading the fire. Effective fire retardant foam formulations are
available commercially but often contain additives that are of environmental
concern or are potential health hazards. There is a requirement within the
industry to find alternatives to the currently used toxic materials for flame
retardancy that also provide improved performance levels at a competitive
price.
Technological Solution
Researchers at the University of Strathclyde are making foam more fire
retardant, partially through the use of nano-clay particles. The clay material
is environmentally friendly and non-toxic. These new foam formulations help to
prevent or lessen the spread of fire, reducing the cost and impact of fires, and
potentially saving lives.
Key Benefits
- Non-toxic and environmentally friendly with no regulatory concerns
- Could reduce number of fire-related deaths and injuries
- Positive social impact by reducing the cost and impact of fires
- Relatively low production costs in comparison to existing foams
- Readily adoptable into existing manufacturing processes
- Potentially applicable to flexible, rigid and spray foams
Markets and Applications
This technology has potential in any industry which uses foam in insulation
or ‘comfort’ applications including
- Furniture and soft furnishings
- Electronics manufacturing
- Packaging
- Building and construction
- Automotive insulation and furnishing
- Structural mouldings
- Aeronautics
- Spray insulation foams
Licensing and Development
The technology is protected by a patent application filed by the University
of Strathclyde as PCT/GB2005/002600, and the development is currently funded by
Scottish Enterprise’s Proof of Concept Fund. Contact is welcomed from
organisations interested in developing, licensing or exploiting this
technology.
The University of Strathclyde Expertise
The team involved in creating this technology have over 60 years experience
in related research and development in this field. They include Professor
Richard Pethrick, Dr John Liggat and Dr John Daly. The technical team are
complemented by staff in the University’s Research & Innovation department,
as well as a consultant expert in the industry, who advise and manage
commercialisation of this technology.
For further information, please contact Research & Innovation e:
ri@strath.ac.uk t: 0141 548 3707 f: 0141 552 4409