Cleaner Chemistry: Rethinking Flame Retardancy Without Antimony Trioxide
In modern manufacturing, safety is non-negotiable – and flame retardants are at the heart of that mission. For decades, antimony trioxide (ATO) was the go-to synergist for enhancing fire performance in plastics, textiles, and electronics. But as industries evolve and environmental awareness deepens, the question is no longer “Does it work?” – it’s “Is it safe? And, is it better for the environment?”
This shift has sparked a global move toward antimony trioxide-free flame-retardant solutions, where performance meets responsibility. That is exactly where SK Minerals & Additives Limited is leading the change.
Why Move Away from Antimony Trioxide?
Antimony trioxide has long been used to boost the effectiveness of halogen-based flame retardants. But growing concerns around toxicity, dust exposure, and regulatory restrictions under frameworks like REACH and RoHS have prompted industries to seek cleaner alternatives.
In addition to health and safety concerns, ATO-dependent systems often come with high smoke output and lower long-term stability. For manufacturers in electronics, automotive, home appliances, wires and cables, and building materials, these drawbacks translate to compliance risks and increased environmental scrutiny.
The solution? A smarter, safer formulation – one that achieves the same fire protection standards without relying on antimony.
The Science of Safer Flame Retardancy
Modern flame-retardant science has evolved far beyond halogen and antimony compounds. Today’s leading-edge formulations (like SKMA’s HOFNIL® range) rely on phosphorus–nitrogen (P–N) intumescent chemistry, which forms a protective char layer when exposed to heat.
This char acts as a thermal barrier, cutting off oxygen and heat transfer, essentially preventing ignition and smoke generation. Unlike traditional ATO systems, these halogen-free formulations are non-toxic, low-smoke and environmentally compliant, while still achieving the same UL94 V-0 ratings across key polymers.
HOFNIL-87R, for example, is designed as a direct ATO replacement synergist – delivering high flame retardancy with lower additive loadings. When paired with phosphorus-based systems, it enhances char yield and stability, offering performance equal to (and often exceeding) traditional antimony formulations.
A Better Path for Industry and the Environment
Transitioning to antimony-free systems isn’t just a regulatory checkbox; it’s a strategic advantage. Industries that switch early reduce long-term compliance risk, simplify export certifications, and demonstrate environmental stewardship to global clients.
For polymer compounders and OEMs, that means smoother audits, cleaner supply chains, and products that align with next-generation sustainability goals. And for SKMA, it means living up to our core philosophy – chemistry that protects not just materials, but people and the planet.
The Future of Flame Retardancy is Clear
The evolution of flame retardants is a story of progress – from efficiency to ethics, and from compliance to conscience. Antimony-free systems mark the next chapter in that journey, combining safety, science and sustainability in one formulation.
At SK Minerals & Additives Limited, we call it cleaner chemistry, which is engineered for performance today and for a safer tomorrow.