Reference of flame retardants, polyurethane raw materials, PVC additives, regulatory terms, and procurement language used in specialty chemical supply.
This glossary covers terms used by formulation chemists, procurement managers, and supply chain teams working with flame retardant additives, polyurethane raw materials, PVC compounds, and related specialty chemistries. CAS numbers are provided where applicable. Entries link to related products where Flamisol supplies the material.
Sb2O3
Inorganic flame retardant synergist used with halogenated FR systems. ATO does not function as a primary flame retardant on its own. In combination with chlorinated or brominated FRs, it reacts to form antimony halides that scavenge radicals in the flame zone, improving char formation and flame extinguishing.
Common applications include flexible and rigid PVC compounds, wire and cable jacketing, polyester resins, and polyolefin masterbatches. Typical loadings: 2-8 percent by weight in combination with halogenated FRs. Common grades: ATO-65 and ATO-85, distinguished by particle size and surface treatment.
Supply has tightened due to antimony market volatility and increased regulatory scrutiny. Procurement teams qualifying alternates typically evaluate zinc-based synergists (zinc stannate, zinc hydroxystannate, zinc borate) as candidates for partial or full replacement.
Tris(2-chloroisopropyl) phosphate
Halogenated liquid phosphorus flame retardant. Combines chlorine and phosphorus chemistry for vapor-phase and condensed-phase FR action. Low viscosity allows easy incorporation into polyol blends without affecting foam processing.
Primary application is flexible polyurethane foam for furniture, bedding, automotive interiors, and acoustic insulation. Also used in rigid PU foam where lower thermal performance is acceptable. Typical loading: 5-15 phr in flexible foam systems.
Specified for compliance with TB 117-2013, FMVSS 302, BS 5852, and various European furniture flammability standards. Subject to California Proposition 65 listing since 2017.
Tris(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate
Halogenated liquid phosphorus flame retardant with higher chlorine content than TCPP, providing greater FR efficiency at lower loadings. Used in flexible polyurethane foam systems requiring higher fire performance than TCPP can provide.
Common in upholstered furniture, mattresses, and seating that must meet TB 117 or equivalent flammability standards. Typical loading: 5-12 phr. Functions as a viscosity reducer in addition to its FR role.
TDCPP is listed under California Proposition 65 (effective 2011) and subject to ongoing regulatory review in multiple jurisdictions. Procurement teams typically request current SDS to confirm chemical inventory status before qualification.
Triethyl phosphate
Halogen-free liquid phosphorus flame retardant. Used as both an FR additive and a viscosity reducer in polyurethane systems. Lower phosphorus content than TCPP/TDCPP requires higher loadings to achieve equivalent FR performance.
Primary application is rigid polyurethane foam and PIR insulation board, where halogen-free FR is required by specification or regulation. Also used in flexible foam where halogen-free chemistry is preferred for reasons of regulatory exposure or end-customer requirements.
Sometimes specified as a hydraulic fluid additive and in unsaturated polyester resin formulations. Procurement note: TEP availability is generally good but pricing has tracked phosphorus feedstock volatility.
Ammonium polyphosphate
Halogen-free solid intumescent flame retardant. On exposure to heat, APP decomposes to form polyphosphoric acid which catalyzes char formation in polyols, polyolefins, and other polymer matrices. The expanding char layer insulates the substrate from heat.
Primary applications include intumescent coatings for structural steel fireproofing, intumescent FR systems in rigid foam and polyolefins, and halogen-free FR compounds for wire and cable. Often combined with melamine and pentaerythritol as a complete intumescent system.
Available in encapsulated and uncoated grades. Encapsulated grades offer improved hydrolytic stability and reduced water uptake during compounding and end use.
Melamine polyphosphate
Halogen-free solid flame retardant combining nitrogen and phosphorus chemistry. Functions in both vapor phase (nitrogen release) and condensed phase (phosphoric acid char formation). Provides good thermal stability for processing temperatures up to 300°C.
Common in glass-filled polyamides (PA6, PA66) for electrical and electronic applications, where UL 94 V-0 ratings at thin sections are required without halogenated chemistry. Also used in polyolefin compounds and epoxy molding compounds.
Typical loadings: 15-25 percent in PA66 systems to achieve UL 94 V-0 at 0.8mm. Often combined with synergists such as zinc borate or aluminum phosphinate.
9,10-Dihydro-9-oxa-10-phosphaphenanthrene-10-oxide
Reactive phosphorus flame retardant designed to incorporate into polymer backbones through P-H bond reactivity. Used in epoxy systems for printed circuit board laminates where halogen-free FR is mandated by industry standards (IPC-4101).
The reactive incorporation prevents leaching and migration, addressing concerns about additive-type FRs in electronics applications. DOPO derivatives include DOPO-HQ (with hydroquinone), DOPO-PEPA, and other functionalized variants used in different polymer chemistries.
Primary specification driver is halogen-free PCB requirements (often called HFR or low-halogen). Major laminate manufacturers maintain DOPO-based formulations as the dominant halogen-free epoxy FR chemistry.
Resorcinol bis(diphenyl phosphate)
Halogen-free oligomeric phosphate ester flame retardant. Provides FR performance for engineering thermoplastics blends, particularly PC/ABS, PPO/HIPS, and PC/PBT systems. The oligomeric structure reduces migration and blooming compared to monomeric phosphate esters.
Typical loading: 8-15 percent in PC/ABS to achieve UL 94 V-0. Acts as both a flame retardant and a plasticizer, often improving processing characteristics. Lower volatility than triphenyl phosphate (TPP) addresses fogging concerns in automotive and consumer electronics applications.
Bisphenol A bis(diphenyl phosphate)
Halogen-free oligomeric phosphate ester FR. Used as the primary alternative to RDP in PC/ABS and engineering thermoplastic systems. Slightly different thermal stability and rheology profile compared to RDP allows formulation flexibility.
Specified in halogen-free electronics housings (laptops, monitors, server enclosures) and automotive interior components. Typical loading: 10-15 percent in PC/ABS, often combined with PTFE anti-drip and ATO-free synergists for full halogen-free systems.
Tetrabromobisphenol A
Reactive brominated flame retardant. Incorporates into epoxy resin systems through reaction with bisphenol-based epoxy chemistry, forming flame-retardant FR4 epoxy laminates for printed circuit boards. The reactive nature minimizes migration and provides permanent FR performance.
Dominant FR chemistry in standard (non-halogen-free) PCB applications. Also used in additive form in ABS and HIPS for specific applications. Subject to REACH evaluation; consult current SVHC and CoRAP status when qualifying suppliers.
Decabromodiphenyl ethane
Additive brominated flame retardant. Developed as a market alternative to decabromodiphenyl ether (DecaBDE) following the latter's regulatory phase-out. Used in HIPS, ABS, polyolefins, and engineering thermoplastics where high bromine content is needed for FR performance.
Common in television enclosures, electrical components, and textile back-coatings. Typical loading: 10-15 percent in HIPS to achieve UL 94 V-0, with ATO synergist at 3-5 percent. Procurement teams should verify current regulatory status in target markets, as brominated FRs face ongoing review.
Al(OH)3
Halogen-free inorganic flame retardant and smoke suppressant. On heating above approximately 200°C, ATH releases water of crystallization, absorbing heat and diluting combustible gases. Forms an alumina char layer that further inhibits combustion.
Requires very high loadings (50-65 percent by weight) to achieve UL 94 V-0 or equivalent ratings. Used in EVA-based wire and cable jacketing, LSZH compounds, conveyor belt rubber, and unsaturated polyester resins. Particle size and surface treatment significantly affect mechanical properties of the final compound.
Thermal decomposition limits use to processing temperatures below 200°C. For higher-temperature compounding, MDH (magnesium dihydroxide) is preferred.
Mg(OH)2
Halogen-free inorganic FR with the same hydrate decomposition mechanism as ATH but higher thermal stability (decomposes above 320°C). Suitable for higher-temperature polymer processing including polyamide, polypropylene, and engineering thermoplastics.
Used in halogen-free LSZH cable compounds, particularly for higher-temperature service rated cables. Typical loadings 55-65 percent. Surface-treated grades improve dispersion and mechanical properties of the resulting compound.
Category of FR additives where bromine provides the active flame-retardant mechanism. Brominated FRs work primarily through vapor-phase radical scavenging, where bromine radicals released during combustion interrupt the chain reactions of fire propagation.
Includes reactive types (TBBPA) that incorporate into the polymer backbone, and additive types (DBDPE, brominated polystyrenes) that physically blend into the polymer matrix. Selection depends on polymer chemistry, target standards, and regulatory considerations in the destination market.
Procurement note: brominated FRs face increasing regulatory scrutiny in EU and certain US states. Buyers should request current SVHC and REACH status before specifying brominated chemistry into long-life products.
Category of FR additives where phosphorus provides the primary FR mechanism, generally through char formation in the condensed phase. Phosphorus FRs decompose to phosphoric acid derivatives that catalyze charring of the polymer surface, creating a barrier layer.
Includes halogenated phosphorus types (TCPP, TDCPP), halogen-free liquid phosphates (TEP), halogen-free oligomeric phosphates (RDP, BDP), reactive types (DOPO, DOPO-PEPA), and inorganic ammonium and melamine polyphosphates (APP, MPP).
Selection depends on polymer compatibility, processing temperature, target FR standard, and whether halogen-free chemistry is required.
ZnSnO3
Inorganic flame retardant synergist and smoke suppressant. Functions through char formation, dilution of combustible gases, and condensed-phase activity in halogenated polymer systems. Acts as a candidate ATO replacement in PVC, wire and cable, and halogenated FR compounds.
Decomposes at higher temperature than zinc hydroxystannate, making FL-ZS preferred for processing systems where elevated cure or compounding temperatures are required. Common loadings: 2-5 percent in halogenated FR systems.
Performance as ATO replacement depends on formulation, halogen source, resin system, processing conditions, and target performance standards. Application-specific testing is required for qualification.
ZnSn(OH)6
Inorganic FR synergist and smoke suppressant. Functions similarly to zinc stannate but decomposes at a lower temperature than zinc stannate, releasing water of crystallization and creating endothermic cooling alongside char promotion.
Lower decomposition temperature makes FL-ZHS suitable for PVC processing without thermal degradation concerns. Common in flexible and rigid PVC compounds, wire and cable jacketing requiring smoke suppression, and as ATO replacement candidate where processing temperature permits.
Typically used in combination with halogenated FRs for synergistic performance. Substitution for ATO requires formulation-specific evaluation.
2ZnO·3B2O3·3.5H2O
Multifunctional FR additive providing flame retardancy, smoke suppression, char formation, and afterglow suppression. Used in halogen-free and halogenated FR systems across multiple polymer chemistries. Decomposes above 290°C with endothermic water release.
Common in halogen-free LSZH cable compounds, intumescent coatings, EVA-based jacketing, polyamide compounds, and wood composites. Acts as a partial replacement for ATO and ATH in certain systems, often improving smoke characteristics.
Several grades available with different particle sizes and surface treatments to match processing requirements.
Additive that enhances the performance of a primary flame retardant beyond what either could achieve alone. The synergist itself often has minimal FR activity but amplifies the action of the primary FR through reaction in the flame zone or condensed phase.
Most common example: ATO with halogenated FRs, where ATO reacts with halogen radicals to form antimony halides that scavenge combustion radicals more efficiently than either component alone. Zinc-based synergists (zinc stannate, zinc hydroxystannate, zinc borate) function through different mechanisms including char enhancement and smoke suppression.
Additive that promotes formation of a carbon-rich layer on the polymer surface during combustion. The char layer acts as a physical barrier between the flame and the underlying polymer, slowing pyrolysis and reducing fuel availability.
Phosphorus-based FRs are the most common char-forming chemistry. Intumescent systems combine an acid source (APP), a carbon source (pentaerythritol or similar), and a blowing agent (melamine) to create an expanding char layer.
Additive that reduces smoke generation during polymer combustion. Critical in wire and cable applications where smoke optical density and toxicity affect emergency egress in fires. Specified by IEC 61034 (smoke density) and EN 50575 (Construction Products Regulation).
Zinc-based additives (zinc stannate, zinc hydroxystannate, zinc borate) are common smoke suppressants. Molybdenum compounds and certain copper salts also function as smoke suppressants, though regulatory exposure varies. Selection depends on polymer chemistry and the target smoke standard.
FR system that expands on exposure to heat, forming a thick insulating char layer that protects the underlying substrate. Classical intumescent chemistry combines an inorganic acid source, a carbon donor, and a gas-generating blowing agent.
Primary applications include structural steel fireproofing coatings, fireproof passive protection in construction, and intumescent FR additives in polyolefins and rigid foam. Performance is measured by char expansion ratio and protection time at a specified furnace temperature curve.
4,4'-Methylene diphenyl diisocyanate
Aromatic diisocyanate used as the isocyanate component in polyurethane chemistry. Pure 4,4'-MDI is a crystalline solid at room temperature, typically melted for use in elastomer, coating, and adhesive systems requiring controlled stoichiometry.
Applications include cast elastomers, microcellular foam, TPU production, structural adhesives, and certain CASE formulations. Lower vapor pressure than TDI provides processing safety advantages.
Mixture of MDI isomers and higher-functionality oligomers (3-functional and above), produced during MDI manufacture. Higher functionality compared to pure MDI provides increased cross-link density when reacted with polyols, suitable for rigid foam applications.
Primary applications include rigid polyurethane and PIR insulation board, spray polyurethane foam (SPF), structural insulated panels (SIPs), automotive interior parts, and binder applications (engineered wood products). NCO content typically 30-32 percent.
Toluene diisocyanate
Aromatic diisocyanate, typically supplied as TDI-80 (80:20 mixture of 2,4 and 2,6 isomers). Used primarily in flexible polyurethane foam for furniture, bedding, and automotive seating. Higher vapor pressure than MDI requires careful handling and process ventilation.
Reactivity profile differs between the two isomers, with the 2,4-isomer being more reactive. This selective reactivity enables prepolymer chemistry in elastomer and coating applications.
Hydroxyl-terminated polymer formed by polymerizing propylene oxide and/or ethylene oxide onto a polyfunctional initiator (glycol, glycerol, sugar). The dominant polyol type in polyurethane chemistry due to low cost, water resistance, and broad property range.
Applications span the entire PU industry: flexible foam (high molecular weight, low OH value), rigid foam (lower MW, higher OH value, often initiated on sucrose or sorbitol), CASE applications, and elastomers. Procurement parameters include OH value, functionality, viscosity, water content, and unsaturation.
Hydroxyl-terminated polyester formed by condensation of diols and diacids (commonly adipic acid with diethylene glycol or other diol). Provides higher hardness and chemical resistance than polyether polyols but lower hydrolytic stability.
Primary applications include CASE products (coatings, adhesives, sealants, elastomers), TPU production, and PU shoe soles where abrasion resistance is critical. Less suited to long-term outdoor or humid service due to ester hydrolysis.
Polyol with three reactive hydroxyl groups per molecule, typically initiated on glycerol. Provides moderate cross-link density when reacted with diisocyanates, suitable for flexible foam, semi-rigid foam, and certain CASE applications.
Common in slabstock flexible foam (long-chain triols, OH 28-56 mgKOH/g), molded foam (similar specs with EO capping), and intermediate-density rigid foam systems. Specific grades such as Polyol 330N-T are used in rigid PU and PIR insulation board production.
Diol polyether polyol formed from propylene oxide polymerization on a glycol initiator. Common grades include PPG-1000, PPG-2000, PPG-4000 (numbering indicates approximate molecular weight). Lower functionality than triols, used in elastomer and CASE chemistry.
Applications include PU prepolymers, microcellular elastomers, urethane sealants, and as a precursor for further chemistries such as polyetheramines.
Amine-terminated polyether produced by converting the hydroxyl groups of a polyether polyol to primary amines. Common grades: D-230, D-400, D-2000 (Jeffamine series and equivalents). Reactive groups: two primary amines per molecule.
Primary applications include epoxy curing agents (D-230, D-400) for room-temperature cure systems, and chain extenders or co-reactants in polyurea spray systems (D-2000 for elastomeric polyurea). Different molecular weights provide different cure profiles and final properties.
Potassium octoate (potassium 2-ethylhexanoate) catalyst that promotes isocyanate trimerization to form isocyanurate (PIR) rings. Critical for rigid PIR insulation foam systems, where the thermally stable isocyanurate ring provides higher temperature performance than standard polyurethane chemistry.
Typical use level: 1-3 percent in B-side formulations for PIR board production. Often used with amine co-catalysts for balanced cream-rise-gel profile.
Tertiary amine compound that catalyzes the isocyanate-water (blowing) reaction, isocyanate-hydroxyl (gel) reaction, or both. Common amine catalysts include TEDA (DABCO), DMCHA, BDMAEE, and DMEA, each with different selectivity profiles.
Catalyst selection determines foam cream time, rise time, and tack-free time, and balances the blowing and gel reactions. Foam producers typically use 2-4 catalysts in combination to achieve the desired processing window.
Compound that generates gas during polyurethane reaction to form the cellular foam structure. Chemical blowing agents (water reacting with isocyanate to release CO2) and physical blowing agents (low-boiling-point liquids such as HFCs, HFOs, hydrocarbons, methyl formate) are both used.
Physical blowing agent selection has been driven by environmental regulation: CFCs to HCFCs to HFCs and now to HFOs and pentane blends. Current generation HFO blowing agents (HFO-1233zd, HFO-1336mzz) provide low GWP for rigid foam insulation systems.
Ratio of actual NCO groups to stoichiometric NCO groups in a polyurethane formulation, expressed as a percentage. Index 100 represents exact stoichiometry between isocyanate and hydroxyl. Standard flexible foam uses index 100-110; rigid PIR systems use index 200-300 to favor trimerization.
Procurement and formulation calculations require accurate NCO content of the isocyanate and OH value of the polyol(s). Higher index increases hardness, char formation, and FR performance but increases isocyanate consumption and cost.
Measure of hydroxyl group concentration in a polyol, expressed as mg KOH equivalent per gram of polyol (mgKOH/g). Inversely related to molecular weight for a given functionality. Flexible foam polyols: 28-56 mgKOH/g. Rigid foam polyols: 350-650 mgKOH/g.
OH value is the primary specification parameter used in polyurethane formulation calculations to determine isocyanate requirement at a given isocyanate index.
The isocyanate functional group (-N=C=O) that reacts with hydroxyl, amine, water, and other active hydrogen compounds to form polyurethane, polyurea, or related chemistry. NCO content of an isocyanate specifies the percentage by weight of NCO groups in the product.
Typical NCO contents: pure MDI 33.6 percent, polymeric MDI 30-32 percent, TDI 48.3 percent (pure), polymeric prepolymers vary from 5-25 percent depending on formulation.
Rigid foam chemistry where excess isocyanate (high index, 200-300) is catalyzed to form isocyanurate rings in addition to urethane linkages. The isocyanurate structure provides higher thermal stability than standard polyurethane, allowing service temperatures up to 150°C versus 100°C for PU.
Primary application is insulation board for commercial roofing, walls, and pipe insulation, where fire performance and thermal stability are critical. Distinguished from PU foam by higher closed-cell content, lower thermal conductivity, and improved fire test performance.
The mixing process that combines PVC resin with stabilizers, plasticizers, fillers, lubricants, flame retardants, and pigments to produce a finished compound ready for extrusion or molding. Compounding can be dry-blend or melt-compounded depending on the end application.
Wire and cable, flexible profile extrusions, blow-molded bottles, and rigid pipe each have distinct compounding requirements. Specifications include K-value (molecular weight indicator), particle size, and additive package composition.
Unplasticized polyvinyl chloride (uPVC) compound used in pressure pipe, fittings, building profiles, window frames, and siding. Stabilization typically uses calcium-zinc or organotin chemistry. Heat resistance and impact properties are tuned by impact modifier selection.
FR applications use ATO or zinc-based synergists with PVC's inherent chlorine content. Specifications include ASTM D1784 cell classification, impact strength, deflection temperature, and flame test ratings.
Plasticized polyvinyl chloride compound. Plasticizer levels of 20-50 phr convert PVC from rigid to flexible, with hardness ranging from 50A to 95A shore depending on plasticizer type and loading. Common plasticizers: DOTP, DINP, DEHP (legacy), trimellitates, and adipates.
Used in wire and cable jacketing, automotive parts, medical tubing, flexible flooring, and consumer products. FR formulations incorporate ATO, zinc stannate, or zinc hydroxystannate as synergists with the inherent chlorine.
Additive that increases flexibility, elongation, and processability of polymer compounds, primarily PVC. Functions by reducing polymer chain interactions through solvation. Loadings 5-50 phr depending on target hardness.
Phthalate plasticizers (DEHP, DINP, DIDP) dominated historically; current trend is toward non-phthalates (DOTP, citrates, trimellitates) driven by consumer regulation. Plasticizer selection affects flexibility retention, migration, fogging, and end-use compliance.
Additive that prevents thermal and oxidative degradation of PVC during processing and service. PVC dehydrochlorinates at processing temperatures without stabilization, releasing HCl and forming color-degrading polyene structures.
Common stabilizer chemistries: calcium-zinc (food contact, building products), barium-zinc (legacy flexible), organotin (rigid pipe, calendaring), and lead (legacy, restricted). Selection depends on application, regulatory environment, and processing conditions.
Adhesive formulation that bonds PVC components by dissolving the surface of each part with a solvent blend (typically THF, MEK, cyclohexanone, acetone), creating a fused joint as the solvent evaporates. Contains dissolved PVC resin and stabilizers to control viscosity and shrinkage.
Applications include plumbing pipe systems, conduit, and PVC fabricated products. Specified by ASTM D2564 for pressure piping and ASTM D2235 for ABS systems. VOC content (typically 500-550 g/L) is subject to regional regulation.
Solvent-based surface preparation product applied to PVC pipe and fittings before solvent cement application. Primer softens the surface PVC and removes contamination, ensuring full surface fusion when the cement is applied. Required by plumbing code in most pressure applications.
Colored primers (often purple) allow inspectors to verify primer application visually. ASTM F656 specifies primer requirements for PVC pressure pipe systems.
Solvent cement formulated to bond dissimilar plastic pipe materials, specifically ABS to PVC. ASTM D3138 specifies the cement composition, joining procedure, and performance requirements for transition joints between ABS and PVC plumbing systems.
Identifiable by characteristic green color (specified by some manufacturers). Required for transition joints in DWV (drain, waste, vent) plumbing systems that combine ABS and PVC sections.
Underwriters Laboratories standard for flammability testing of plastic materials used in devices and appliances. Common classifications, from least to most flame-resistant: HB (horizontal burn), V-2, V-1, V-0 (vertical burn), 5VB, 5VA. Each classification specifies burn time, drip behavior, and afterflame characteristics.
V-0 at 1.6 mm or 0.8 mm thickness is the common requirement for electrical and electronic enclosures, with thinner ratings being more challenging to achieve. Required by safety standards for power supplies, controls, and consumer electronics.
International standard for flame propagation testing of single insulated wires and cables (Part 1) and bunched cables (Part 3). Tests measure the extent of charring along a vertical or horizontal cable sample after exposure to a defined flame source.
IEC 60332-1 tests single cable specimens; IEC 60332-3 tests bunched cables for fire propagation in cable trays. Required compliance varies by installation type and regional building code, with category D installations (data centers, hospitals) typically requiring the strictest performance.
International standard for measurement of smoke density from cables burning under defined conditions. The three-cubic-meter test chamber measures light transmission through smoke from a horizontally mounted cable sample.
Common pass criterion: 60 percent minimum light transmission, indicating a Low Smoke (LS) compound. Combined with IEC 60754 (acid gas evolution) testing, this defines the Low Smoke Zero Halogen (LSZH) cable category required in many tunnel, rail, and public-building installations.
Standard specification for solvent cements used in transition joints between PVC and ABS plastic pipe in non-pressure plumbing applications. Specifies cement properties, joining technique, and performance criteria for the transition joint.
Critical for residential and commercial DWV plumbing systems where ABS and PVC sections are joined. The transition joint is the most demanding application for solvent cement, requiring compatibility with both polymer chemistries.
The minimum oxygen concentration required to support combustion of a polymer sample under specified conditions, expressed as a percentage. Measured by ASTM D2863 (vertical sample) or ISO 4589. Higher LOI indicates greater flame retardancy.
Reference values: untreated polyethylene 17 percent, untreated PVC 47 percent, halogen-free FR compound target 30-32 percent. LOI is a common screening parameter during FR formulation development but does not predict full-scale fire performance.
Bench-scale fire test (ASTM E1354, ISO 5660) measuring heat release rate, total heat released, smoke production, and mass loss rate of a polymer sample exposed to a calibrated radiant heat flux. The cone-shaped radiant heater provides controlled exposure.
Peak heat release rate (pHRR) is the primary parameter used for FR formulation evaluation, with target values varying by application. More predictive of real-world fire performance than LOI or UL 94 vertical tests, though full-scale testing remains required for code compliance.
The Steiner Tunnel test measures surface burning characteristics of building materials in a 24-foot horizontal tunnel under defined airflow. Produces Flame Spread Index (FSI) and Smoke Developed Index (SDI) ratings. Class A: FSI 0-25, SDI 0-450 (highest fire performance).
Required by IBC and NFPA building codes for interior finishes, insulation, and wall coverings. Critical for spray polyurethane foam (SPF) insulation, wood-fiber acoustic panels, and intumescent coatings.
Room corner fire test for evaluating interior wall and ceiling finishes. Tests a full-scale wall-and-ceiling assembly with a gas burner in the corner, measuring time to flashover, heat release rate, and smoke production over a 15-minute test.
Common alternative to ASTM E84 for products that cannot be reasonably tested in the Steiner Tunnel. Required for spray polyurethane foam in many building code jurisdictions.
U.S. federal law (15 U.S.C. §2601) administered by the EPA, governing the manufacture, import, distribution, and use of industrial chemicals in commerce. Chemicals must be listed on the TSCA Inventory to be legally imported into or manufactured in the United States.
TSCA Section 8 requires periodic data reporting (CDR); Section 5 requires Premanufacture Notification (PMN) for new chemicals; Section 6 enables risk management actions on specific chemistries. A TSCA compliance letter from the supplier confirms inventory status and is commonly requested during vendor qualification.
Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals. European Union regulation (EC 1907/2006) administered by ECHA, requiring registration of chemicals manufactured in or imported into the EU above 1 tonne per year.
Companies importing into the EU must register through an EU-based Only Representative or REACH-compliant importer. The SVHC Candidate List, updated semi-annually, drives notification and substitution programs across the supply chain.
REACH classification for chemicals that may have serious effects on human health or environment, including CMR (carcinogenic, mutagenic, reprotoxic), PBT (persistent, bioaccumulative, toxic), and endocrine disruptors. Listed on the ECHA Candidate List.
Articles containing SVHCs above 0.1 percent by weight require supply chain notification under REACH Article 33. Procurement teams should request supplier confirmation of SVHC status for any chemical specified into long-life products sold in the EU.
The EPA's electronic reporting portal for environmental data submissions. Required for Chemical Data Reporting (CDR), TSCA notifications, and Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) filings. Companies must enroll and establish credentials before they can submit reports.
Flamisol is enrolled in EPA CDX as Primary Authorized Official under the CSPP (Chemical Safety and Pesticide Programs) program. Vendor qualification packages often require EPA CDX entity verification.
EPA program area within the CDX portal covering TSCA chemical reporting and FIFRA pesticide programs. Enrollment in CSPP enables Chemical Data Reporting, Section 8 reporting, and other TSCA-related submissions.
Companies importing or manufacturing TSCA-listed substances above reporting thresholds must enroll. CSPP enrollment is referenced in vendor qualification documents to verify legal manufacture/import standing.
TSCA Section 8(a) requirement for companies that manufacture or import TSCA chemicals above the 25,000 lb/yr reporting threshold. Reports include production volumes, processing and use information, and other commercial data. Filed every four years through EPA CDX.
CDR data informs EPA risk assessment activities under TSCA. Confidentiality claims (CBI) protect proprietary commercial information from public disclosure.
UN-coordinated standard for chemical hazard classification, labeling, and SDS format. Implemented in the U.S. as OSHA HazCom 2012 (29 CFR 1910.1200). Specifies the 16-section SDS format, pictograms, signal words, and hazard statements used internationally.
All chemicals shipped commercially in the U.S. must have GHS-compliant SDS available. Many manufacturers produce one GHS SDS valid across multiple jurisdictions, with regional supplements for country-specific requirements.
16-section document providing chemical hazard, handling, storage, and emergency response information. Required by OSHA HazCom 2012 in the U.S., REACH in the EU, and equivalent regulations globally. Format follows the GHS standard.
Sections include identification, hazard classification, composition, first aid, fire response, accidental release, handling/storage, exposure controls, physical/chemical properties, stability/reactivity, toxicology, ecology, disposal, transport, regulatory, and other information.
Document providing product specifications, typical properties, application guidance, and handling notes. Unlike SDS, TDS focuses on technical and commercial use rather than hazard information. Format is supplier-specific but typically includes physical properties, chemical composition outline, and recommended applications.
Procurement teams reference TDS for formulation evaluation, product qualification, and specification compliance. Often combined with CoA for shipment-by-shipment verification.
Lot-specific document confirming that a shipped batch meets stated specifications. Includes test results for critical parameters (purity, water content, color, viscosity, particle size, etc.) measured against the product's specification range.
CoA typically provided with shipment, but advance CoA is commonly requested by procurement during product qualification. Distinct from CoC (Certificate of Conformance), which states specification compliance without listing actual measurements.
Unique identifier assigned by the Chemical Abstracts Service to each chemical substance. Format: three groups of digits separated by hyphens (e.g., 13674-84-5 for TCPP). Provides unambiguous reference across language barriers and chemical naming conventions.
Procurement teams reference CAS numbers in specifications, regulatory filings, SDS, and customs documentation. The same chemistry may have different commercial names, but the CAS number provides definitive identification.
California's Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act (1986). Maintains a list of chemicals known to cause cancer, birth defects, or reproductive harm. Products sold in California containing listed chemicals above defined exposure levels require warning labels.
Several flame retardants are Prop 65 listed, including TDCPP (2011). TCPP is not Prop 65 listed; it is a Biomonitoring California priority chemical, a separate program from Proposition 65. Procurement teams selling into California must evaluate Prop 65 exposure for any product containing listed chemistries above safe harbor levels.
EU Directive 2011/65/EU restricting use of specific hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment. Restricted substances include lead, mercury, cadmium, hexavalent chromium, PBB, PBDE, and four phthalates (DEHP, BBP, DBP, DIBP).
Articles sold into the EU must comply with RoHS limits. Manufacturers maintain RoHS declarations for components and raw materials used in electronics. RoHS-equivalent regulations exist in China, India, and other markets.
Incoterms 2020 trade term in which the seller is responsible for all costs and risks of delivery including export and import duties, taxes, freight, and brokerage. The buyer receives the goods at the named destination with no further charges to settle.
Procurement teams prefer DDP for predictability: the quoted price is the final delivered price. Common in specialty chemical supply where the distributor manages import processes the end customer cannot or does not want to handle.
Incoterms 2020 trade term where the seller pays for shipment to the buyer's named port of destination, including insurance for transit. Risk transfers to the buyer when goods are loaded at origin, even though seller pays through to destination port.
The buyer is responsible for import customs clearance, duties, taxes, and onward freight from the destination port. Common in international shipping where the buyer prefers to manage local clearance directly.
Incoterms 2020 trade term where seller delivers goods loaded on the vessel at the named port of shipment. Risk and cost transfer to the buyer at the ship's rail. The buyer is responsible for ocean freight, insurance, import clearance, and onward delivery.
FOB pricing allows the buyer to control logistics and select preferred freight forwarders, but creates more procurement complexity than DDP. Common between experienced industrial buyers and overseas manufacturers.
A supplier or manufacturer qualified by procurement as an approved alternative to a primary supplier. Maintained for supply continuity, price competition, regulatory compliance, and risk diversification. Common in industrial procurement for critical or specialty chemistries.
Qualification typically requires sample testing, documentation review (SDS, TDS, TSCA, CoA), insurance verification, and a trial order before approval. Once qualified, the second source receives a portion of regular volume to maintain the relationship and confirm consistency.
Standard payment term in which the buyer pays the full invoice within 30 days of invoice date. Common payment term for qualified industrial accounts. Variations include Net 15, Net 45, Net 60 (longer terms reduce buyer's working capital requirement but increase supplier credit exposure).
New accounts typically start with prepayment or wire transfer in advance, transitioning to Net terms after a credit application, references, and history of timely payment have been established.
Freight category for shipments smaller than a full trailer load, typically 150 to 15,000 pounds. LTL carriers consolidate multiple shippers' freight on one trailer, charging based on weight, density, dimensions, distance, and freight class.
Most specialty chemical shipments under one pallet ship LTL. NMFC freight class affects rate significantly, with hazardous materials requiring carriers with proper authority and trained handlers.
Ocean freight categories. FCL: an entire shipping container (20-foot or 40-foot) dedicated to one shipper's cargo. LCL: cargo consolidated with other shippers' freight in a shared container, charged by volume and weight.
FCL is more cost-efficient above approximately 12-15 cubic meters of cargo. LCL allows smaller international shipments but adds handling time, consolidation risk, and per-unit cost. Specialty chemical shipments may use either depending on volume.
Logistics arrangement in which the distributor's supplier ships directly to the end customer rather than through the distributor's warehouse. Reduces handling and transit time but limits the distributor's control over packaging, documentation, and inspection.
Common for bulk chemical orders where double-handling at a 3PL would be inefficient. Procurement teams should verify in advance whether documentation (CoA, COC, TSCA letter) accompanies the drop shipment or arrives separately from the distributor.
Hollow polymeric sphere (typically acrylonitrile-based copolymer) containing a liquid hydrocarbon blowing agent encapsulated within a thermoplastic shell. On heating above the activation temperature, the shell softens and the hydrocarbon vaporizes, expanding the sphere to 3-5 times its original diameter.
Used as lightweight filler and density reducer in compounds, sealants, coatings, putties, and underbody automotive coatings. Provides controlled expansion, weight reduction, sound dampening, and dimensional stability. Flamisol supplies the IC-Sphere XT-220 grade for industrial applications.
The dominant chemistry for thermoplastic expandable microspheres. The acrylonitrile-based copolymer shell provides the necessary gas-barrier properties to retain the blowing agent at room temperature while softening sufficiently at activation temperature (typically 100-200°C depending on grade) to allow expansion.
Different grades offer different activation temperature ranges, particle sizes, and chemical resistance, allowing formulation into different host materials including PVC plastisols, epoxy putties, polyurethane foam, and water-based coatings.
Concentrated additive package dispersed in a carrier polymer, typically used to introduce colorants, FR additives, or other functional additives into a base resin during processing. Allows precise dosing and uniform dispersion of additives at the converter without on-site weighing of small quantities.
FR masterbatches commonly contain 30-60 percent active FR loaded into a compatible carrier (polyethylene, polypropylene, EVA, or PVC), letting down at 5-15 percent in the final compound. Carrier compatibility with the base resin is critical for performance.
Industry shorthand for Coatings, Adhesives, Sealants, and Elastomers. CASE applications typically use polyurethane chemistry distinct from foam production, with different polyol selections, curing systems, and processing equipment.
CASE polyurethane consumes a significant share of MDI, polyetheramine, and polyester polyol production. Applications include industrial coatings, structural adhesives, construction sealants, cast elastomers, microcellular foam, and TPU.
Two-component polyurethane foam applied as a liquid spray that expands and cures into rigid or semi-rigid foam in place. Used as insulation in commercial and residential buildings, providing thermal performance, air sealing, and structural rigidity.
Closed-cell SPF (2.0-2.5 lb/ft3 density) provides higher R-value, vapor barrier, and structural strength. Open-cell SPF (0.5-0.8 lb/ft3) provides lower cost and acoustic benefits. Both are regulated for fire performance under NFPA 286 or AC377 in U.S. building codes.
Flamisol supplies the flame retardants, polyurethane raw materials, PVC additives, and specialty chemistries described in this glossary. Submit an RFQ with your target product, specification, and quantity, and we will return pricing and documentation within one business day.
Submit RFQ Technical LibraryProvide your details and we will send the requested SDS, TDS, or CoA within 24 hours.