| Product Description: Alumina Trihydrate (ATH or hydrated alumina) is a non-toxic, non-corrosive, flame retardant and smoke suppressant utilized in elastomeric applications. It is the most frequently used flame retardant in the world. ATH is a very effective flame retardant due to its thermodynamic properties which absorb heat and release water vapor. Alumina trihydrate releases its 35% water of crystallization as water vapor when heated above 205°C. The resulting endothermic reaction cools the product below flash point, reducing the risk of fire and acts as a vapor barrier to prevent oxygen from reaching the flame. Typical loadings vary from 20 phr to 150 phr. Because many polymers like polyethylene and polypropylene process above 200°C, these polyolefins should use magnesium hydroxide as a flame retardant filler since its water of hydration releases at approximately 325°C.Information provided by Akrochem Corporation |
