Plastics are generally highly flammable, creating the need for flame retardancy to prevent fires. Flame retardants containing halogen are typically added to plastics in order to improve their flame retardancy, or halogen-containing plastics are used. Adeka is developing halogen-free flame retardants (ADK STAB FP series) that generate less carbon monoxide and smoke, making them both eco-friendly and a factor in reducing fire-related deaths.

Flame retarded plastic materials are used in diverse everyday applications, ranging from consumer electronics and automated office equipment to building materials and automotive materials.

Conventional flame retarded plastic materials consist of plastics mixed with bromine flame retardants, or polyvinyl chloride (PVC), either of which contain halogens in the form of bromine or chlorine. Some bromine flame retardants emit highly toxic dioxin during combustion, and in some cases are banned. PVC is also known to generate toxic substances during combustion.

For these reasons, some computer manufacturers and environmental organizations have lobbied the European Commission to ban the use of halogen-containing materials, part of a trend among developed nations to move away from halogen-containing materials.

Halogen-free flame retardants are being increasingly used today, and the Adeka Group is doing its part to educate the public about fire safety and have a positive social impact through the development of halogen-free flame retardants.