By info@ico28.com 
Hull UK based Floreon has won the US Plastics Industry Association’s ‘innovation in bioplastics’ award for its plant-based, flame retardant, halogen-free polymer.
Called Therma-Tech is a PLA (polylactic acid) with a UL94V-0 flame-retardant rating – electronic and electrical are two of the company’s intended markets.
“Winning this award is testament to the relentless innovation and commitment of the entire team and the importance of the advances we’ve made in developing the highest performing bioplastic yet,” said Floreon CEO Sandrine Garnier. “2024 is our year – we’ve scaled up three products, secured investor backing, brought new talent on-board and launched our first commercial application.”
Building, construction, transportation, sport and safety equipment are other potential markets.
The plastic came out of a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) with the University of Sheffield.
Investments in Floreon include £2m from private equity firm Northern Gritstone and £250k from the UK government-funded Centre for Process Innovation (UK-CPI). The company is also a finalist in the UK’s Plastic Industry Awards, to be held in November.
Find the Therma-Tech data sheet here
Original article source:
FAQ
1. What is UL94V-0 certification, and why is it important?
UL94V-0 is a safety certification for materials that demonstrate flame retardant properties. A material with this rating will stop burning within 10 seconds after being ignited, with no flaming droplets. This certification is crucial for ensuring that the bio-plastic is safe for use in electrical and electronic devices, where fire hazards need to be minimized.
2. What exactly is flame retardant bio-plastic?
Flame retardant bio-plastic is a type of environmentally friendly plastic that has been engineered to resist catching fire or to limit the spread of flames. It’s made from renewable resources and includes additives that inhibit combustion, making it both sustainable and safe for applications requiring fire resistance.
3. What makes UL94V-0 bio-plastic better than traditional flame retardant plastics?
Bio-plastics are derived from natural sources, such as plant-based polymers, which means they have a lower carbon footprint compared to petroleum-based plastics. With UL94V-0 certification, these bio-plastics are not only eco-friendly but also meet stringent safety standards, offering a dual benefit of sustainability and fire protection.
4. What types of products can use UL94V-0 certified flame retardant bio-plastics?
These bio-plastics are ideal for use in industries where fire safety is a concern, such as electronics, automotive components, home appliances, and building materials. They offer a greener alternative without compromising on safety, making them suitable for applications that demand high fire resistance.
5. What is the significance of the prize for UL94V-0 flame retardant bio-plastic?
The prize highlights innovation in sustainable materials, encouraging companies and researchers to develop bio-plastics that meet or exceed current safety standards while reducing environmental impact. It could be awarded to companies, research institutions, or individuals who contribute significantly to advancing flame retardant bio-plastic technology.
6. What are the criteria for winning the prize?
Participants may be judged on factors like the innovation of their bio-plastic material, its sustainability, performance in fire retardant testing (meeting or exceeding UL94V-0 standards), and potential real-world applications. The prize could also consider the scalability of the bio-plastic and its commercial viability.
7. How does flame retardant bio-plastic contribute to a sustainable future?
By combining flame retardant properties with a bio-based structure, this material offers a pathway to reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering the environmental impact of plastic production. This supports global efforts to minimize pollution and enhance safety standards, all while promoting innovation in green technology.