TBBPA (Tetrabromobisphenol A): A Complete Guide for Plastics Manufacturers
Brominated Flame Retardants for ABS, HIPS and Engineering Plastics
The two mechanisms
Additive flame retardants are physically blended into the polymer during compounding. Reactive flame retardants are chemically bonded into the polymer chain during polymerisation. The choice affects migration, mechanical properties and processing.
When to use additives
Additive flame retardants such as DBDPE and decabromodiphenyl products are simple to dose and work in thermoplastics like PP, PE, ABS and HIPS. The trade-off is potential migration or blooming at very high loadings, which is managed with correct dispersion and synergists.
When to use reactives
Reactive flame retardants such as TBBPA in epoxy laminates do not migrate because they are part of the polymer. They are preferred in thermosets and in applications demanding long-term stability, at the cost of being locked into the polymerisation step.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between reactive and additive flame retardants?
Additive flame retardants are blended into the polymer; reactive flame retardants are chemically bonded into the polymer chain, so they do not migrate.
Which type is better for thermoplastics?
Additive flame retardants are usually chosen for thermoplastics because they can be compounded directly without changing the polymerisation process.
Need a quotation or technical data sheet?
Shandong Haiwang Chemical supplies brominated flame retardants, antimony trioxide and oilfield bromides worldwide. Tell us your product, grade, quantity and destination port and our team will reply quickly. Visit our products page or contact us — email mikeyang@haiwangchemical.com.