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.
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.
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.
This technology has potential in any industry which uses foam in insulation or ‘comfort’ applications including
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 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