Palonestäväts

Palonestäväts, often referred to as flame retardants, are chemical additives that are incorporated into combustible materials to inhibit, suppress, or delay the production of flames. Their primary function is to reduce the flammability of materials, thereby increasing safety in various applications. By altering the chemical or physical properties of the material, palonestäväts make it harder for a fire to ignite, spread, and sustain itself.

These substances work through several mechanisms. Some palonestäväts release water vapor when heated, which cools the material and dilutes flammable gases. Others form a char layer on the surface of the material, acting as a physical barrier that insulates the underlying material from heat and oxygen. Still others interfere with the chemical reactions that propagate the flame in the gas phase.

Palonestäväts are used in a wide range of products, including plastics, textiles, electronics, building materials, and furniture. Their incorporation into these materials is a key strategy in fire safety regulations, aiming to provide occupants with more time to escape in case of a fire and to reduce the overall damage caused by fires. The specific type of palonestäväts used depends on the material being treated and the desired level of fire resistance. There are various classes of palonestäväts, including halogenated, phosphorus-based, and inorganic compounds, each with its own efficacy and environmental considerations.