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Phosphate Flame Retardants: Advanced Fire Safety with Sustainable Chemistry

Engineered for superior fire protection, regulatory compliance & sustainable performance.

Alfa Chemistry delivers advanced phosphate flame retardants engineered for superior fire protection, regulatory compliance, and performance across polymers, textiles, and batteries. Discover sustainable alternatives to brominated flame retardants.

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Overview of Phosphate Flame Retardants

Features

Recent years have seen phosphate flame retardants (PFRs) become prominent in flame-retardant material research because of their low halogen content along with halogen-free composition which produces low smoke and maintains relatively low toxicity. These materials enhance flame-retardant qualities while reducing toxic gas and smoke emissions during combustion providing substantial environmental and safety benefits. Our PFRs at Alfa Chemistry provide an eco-friendly option to brominated flame retardants according to worldwide standards for green chemistry.

Flame Retardant Mechanism

Phosphate-based flame retardants (PFRs) inhibit combustion through:

  • Char Formation: When phosphates break down they create phosphoric acid which helps form carbonaceous char that protects polymers.
  • Gas-Phase Radical Trapping: The system generates PO• radicals which terminate combustion by neutralizing flammable H•/OH• radicals.
  • Cooling Effect: Endothermic decomposition absorbs heat.

This solution serves as an optimal choice for electronics alongside PU foam and lithium batteries which require halogen-free substances.

Types of Phosphate Flame Retardants

Organophosphate esters (OPEs) are categorized based on their substituent moieties, which critically determine their thermal behavior, compatibility, and fire-suppression mechanisms. At Alfa Chemistry, we supply OPEs across these three primary classes to address specific material challenges:

1. Alkyl-Substituted Organic Phosphates

Structural Signature: Characterized by one or more aliphatic alkyl chains (e.g., methyl, ethyl, butyl) directly bonded to the phosphorus core.

Key Properties:

  • Low Polarity: Enhances compatibility with non-polar polymers (PP, PE) and plasticization in PVC.
  • Hydrolytic Stability: Resists degradation in humid environments (e.g., cable insulation).
  • Volatility Control: Longer alkyl chains (C8+) reduce migration and fogging in automotive interiors.

Featured Products

Product Name Abbreviation Formula Price
Tris(methyl) phosphate TMP C3H9O4PInquiry
Tris(ethyl) phosphate TEP C6H15O4PInquiry
Tris(propyl) phosphate TPP C9H21O4PInquiry
Tris(isopropyl) phosphate TIPP C9H21O4PInquiry
Tris(butyl) phosphate TNBP C12H27O4PInquiry
Tris(isobutyl) phosphate TIBP C12H27O4PInquiry
Tris(2-ethylhexyl) phosphate TEHP C24H51O4PInquiry
2-Ethylhexyl diphenyl phosphate EHDPP C20H27O4PInquiry
Tris(2-butoxyethyl) phosphate TBOEP C18H39O7PInquiry

2. Aromatic-Substituted Organic Phosphates

Structural Signature: Incorporate aromatic rings (typically phenyl or cresyl groups) attached to the phosphate center.

Key Properties:

  • High Thermal Stability (200–300°C): Withstands processing of engineering plastics (PC, PBT).
  • Char Promotion: Aryl groups enhance condensed-phase char formation via radical recombination.
  • Low Volatility: Ideal for high-temperature electronics and automotive components.

Featured Products

Product Name Abbreviation Formula Price
Tricresyl Phosphate TCP C21H21O4PInquiry
Tri-o-cresyl phosphate TOCP C21H21O4PInquiry
Cresyl diphenyl phosphate CDP C19H17O4PInquiry
Isopropylate Triphenyl Phosphate IPPP C27H33O4PInquiry
Tris(4-butylphenyl) phosphate TBPP C30H39O4PInquiry
Bisphenol A bis(diphenyl phosphate) BPA-BDPP C39H34O8P2Inquiry
Resorcinol bis(diphenyl phosphate) RBDPP C30H24O8PInquiry
Triphenylphosphine oxide TPPO C18H15OPInquiry

3. Haloalkyl-Substituted Organic Phosphates

Structural Signature: Combine alkyl chains with halogen atoms (Cl/Br) to leverage gas-phase radical quenching.

Key Properties:

  • Synergistic Efficiency: Halogens release HX gases to scavenge combustion radicals (e.g., OH•).
  • Vapor Pressure Optimization: Chlorinated groups balance volatility and polymer compatibility.
  • Regulatory Note: Chlorinated variants (e.g., TCEP) face restrictions; brominated alternatives require environmental assessments.

Featured Products

Product Name Abbreviation Formula Price
Tris(chloroethyl) phosphate TCEP C6H12Cl3O4PInquiry
Tris(chloropropyl) phosphate TCPP C9H18Cl3O4PInquiry
Tris(2-chloroisopropyl) phosphate TCIPP C9H18Cl3O4PInquiry
Tris(2,3-dichloropropyl) phosphate TDCPP C9H15Cl6O4PInquiry
Tris(1,3-dichloroisopropyl) phosphate TDCIPP C9H15Cl6O4PInquiry
Tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) phosphate TDBPP C9H15Br6O4PInquiry
Tris(tribromoneopentyl) phosphate TTBNPP C15H24Br9O4PInquiry

Optimized Selection Guide for Phosphate Flame Retardants

Selecting the optimal phosphate flame retardant requires balancing chemical compatibility, regulatory compliance, and performance efficiency across diverse applications. At Alfa Chemistry, we leverage our extensive portfolio of 50+ organophosphate esters to engineer solutions tailored to your polymer matrix, processing conditions, and fire-safety standards. The application-based product selection guide located below will help you quickly discover the perfect phosphate flame retardant solution for your project.

Material/Application Key Standards Recommended Products Price
Rigid Polyurethane Foam DIN 4102 B1
ASTM E84
GB 8624		Tris(1-chloro-2-propyl)phosphate (TCPP)Inquiry
Tris(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl)phosphate (TDCPP)Inquiry
Tributoxyethyl Phosphate (TBEP)Inquiry
Diethyl N,N-bis(2-hydroxyethyl) aminomethylphosphonateInquiry
Engineering Plastics (PC/ABS) UL 94 V-0
IEC 61249-2-21
GMW 14688		Bisphenol A bis(diphenyl phosphate)Inquiry
Isopropylphenyl diphenyl phosphateInquiry
Triaryl Phosphate Isopropylated, Grade 1Inquiry
PVC Cables & Films EN 60332-1
IEC 60754-1
RoHS		Diisodecyl phenyl phosphateInquiry
Diphenyl Isooctyl Phosphate (DPOP)Inquiry
Trioctyl Phosphate (TOP)Inquiry
Tricresyl Phosphate (TCP)Inquiry
Epoxy Resins/Electronics UL 746 C
IEC 61189
IPC-4101		Cresyl Diphenyl Phosphate (CDP)Inquiry
Resorcinol bis(diphenylphosphate)Inquiry
Phosphoric Acid Cresyl Diphenyl EsterInquiry
Lithium Batteries UN 38.3
IEC 62619
UL 1642		Tris(2,2,2-trifluoroethyl)phosphate (TFEP)Inquiry
Phosphonate OligomerInquiry
Textile Back-Coating BS 5852
NFPA 701
ISO 15025		Isopropylate Triphenyl Phosphate (IPPP 50)Inquiry
Tetrakis(2-chloroethyl) ethylene diphosphateInquiry
Intumescent Coatings UL 263
ASTM E119
EN 13501		Pentaerythritol Phosphate (PEPA)Inquiry
Dimelamine phosphateInquiry
High-Temp Polymers FAA 25.853
ISO 2685
DO-160		Tri-p-t-butylphenyl phosphateInquiry
Poly[phosphonate-co-carbonate]Inquiry
Phosphoric acid, mixed esters with [1,1'-bisphenyl-4,4'-diol] and phenolInquiry

What Success Stories Can We Share?

Here are some technical case studies showcasing Alfa Chemistry's organophosphate flame retardants in action, based on specific applications and our product portfolio:

Case Study 1: Halogen-Free PVC Conveyor Belts for Industry

Client: Global industrial equipment manufacturer

Challenge:

Replace carcinogenic TCPP in PVC conveyor belts while maintaining: DIN 22102 fire resistance (≤250 mm/min burn rate); Flexibility at -40°C (Mining Standard AS 1333); 15% cost reduction vs. legacy formulation.

Our Solution:

  • Products: Diphenyl Isooctyl Phosphate (DPOP): Primary plasticizer/flame retardant; Tricresyl Phosphate (TCP): Co-stabilizer for thermal endurance.
  • Synergy: DPOP's cold tolerance (-60°C) + TCP's char-forming capability.

Results: Compared with conventional TCPP, our solution achieves a flame spread of 190 mm/min, enhances the cold-resistant temperature from -25°C to -42°C, reduces VOC emissions from 850 μg/g to 320 μg/g, and reduces the cost benchmark by 12%.

Case Study 2: Non-Migrating Flame Retardant for EV Battery Trays

Client: EV battery manufacturer

Challenge:

Prevent electrolyte leakage-triggered fires while: Passing UN 38.3 nail penetration test; Maintaining >500 charge cycles; Eliminating TCPP migration.

Our Solution:

  • Product: Tris(2,2,2-trifluoroethyl)phosphate (TFEP) + Phosphonate Oligomer.
  • Mechanism: TFEP gas-phase radical quenching + Oligomer char reinforcement.
  • Application: Battery tray PP composite (30% glass fiber)

Results:

  • Safety: No thermal runaway in nail penetration (IEC 62619:2022)
  • Durability: 602 cycles @ 80% capacity retention
  • Migration:<0.01% TFEP leaching (GC-MS, 85°C/500h)

Why Alfa Chemistry?

Global Compliance

Products meet EU, US, and Asia-Pacific regulations.

R&D Leadership

50+ variants in advanced PFRs (e.g., for battery electrolytes).

Customization Expertise

Customized diversified phosphate ester synergistic formulations, such as P-N, P-Si, P-S, and P-B systems.

Logistics

25kg–1,250kg batches; ISO-certified global supplier.

FAQs About Phosphate Flame Retardants

Q1: Are phosphate flame retardants toxic?

A: It is critical to distinguish PFR compounds since their chemical structures result in significantly diverse toxicity profiles. The main routes of exposure to phosphate flame retardants for humans include ingestion through the mouth as well as inhalation and skin contact. Studies with laboratory animals demonstrate that extended contact with specific flame retardants results in organ damage along with tumor formation. Studies indicate that persistent exposure to TCEP (trichlorophenyl phosphate) causes kidney tumors while TnBP (tri(2-butoxy)phenyl phosphate) exposure leads to bladder and liver tumors. The toxicity of phosphate flame retardants results from their ability to disturb endocrine system operations and change neural development patterns together with gene expression.

Relevant regulatory laws and regulations have been strictly introduced to regulate the use of phosphate flame retardants. To find detailed regulations you should refer to the answer to question 2.

Q2: Can PFRs replace brominated flame retardants in ABS?

A: Yes! Triaryl phosphates (e.g., Triaryl Phosphate Isopropylated, Grade 1) achieve UL 94 V-0 in ABS/PC blends without compromise.

Q3: What are the main regulations governing organophosphate flame retardants?

A: Organophosphate flame retardants face stringent global regulations due to concerns regarding environmental persistence, bioaccumulation potential, and human health impacts. Key regulatory actions include:

1. United States Regulations

  • Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA)

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has imposed regulations on chemical substances like TCEP and tris(2-chloroisopropyl) phosphate (TDCPP) that require mandatory product declaration or usage limitations.

  • California Proposition 65

California Proposition 65 lists TCEP and TDCPP as carcinogens or reproductive toxicants which mandates warning labels on products containing these compounds.

2. European Union (REACH & Annex XVII)

The EU classifies several OPEs as Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC) or restricts their use entirely:

SubstanceCAS No.Regulatory Status
Tris(2-chloroethyl) phosphate (TCEP)115-96-8
  • SVHC Candidate List (≥0.1% w/w triggers notification)
Trixylyl phosphate (TXP)25155-23-1
  • SVHC Candidate List (≥0.1% w/w)
Triphenyl phosphate (TPP)115-86-6
  • SVHC Candidate List (≥0.1% w/w)
  • Proposed for Annex XIV authorization requirement
Tris(2,3-dibromopropyl) phosphate (TRIS)126-72-7
  • Annex XVII Ban: Prohibited in textiles & clothing (Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006)
Tris(1-aziridinyl)-phosphine oxide (TEPA)545-55-1
  • Annex XVII Ban: Prohibited in all consumer applications

⚠️ Useful links: ECHA official website: https://echa.europa.eu/

Q4: What are effective synergistic systems using organophosphate flame retardants?

A: Organophosphate flame retardants achieve superior fire protection through synergistic systems. Key combinations include:

Synergistic SystemMechanismPerformance & Applications
Phosphorus-Nitrogen
(e.g., PEPA + Melamine Phosphate)
  • Forms thermally stable char
  • Releases non-flammable gases (PO•/NH3) for gas-phase quenching
  • LOI ↑ 35-46% in epoxy resins
  • UL 94 V-0 at 15-20% loading
  • 60% reduced PHRR in PA6
Phosphorus-Silicon
(e.g., PEPA + Polyorganosiloxanes)
  • Creates ceramic-like char-silica barrier
  • Enhances melt dripping resistance
  • 50% lower smoke density in epoxy
  • UL 94 V-0 at 10% loading (PC/ABS)
Phosphorus-Sulfur
(e.g., PEPA + Thiophosphate esters)
  • Catalyzes sulfated char formation
  • Traps radical intermediates (SO2/PO•)
  • UL 94 V-0 in PP at 25% loading
  • 40% reduction in CO/CO2 emissions
Phosphorus-Boron
(e.g., PEPA + Zinc Borate)
  • Generates glassy B-P-O char layer
  • Endothermic dehydration cools matrix
  • V-0 rating in LDPE at 18% loading
  • 50% lower peak heat release (cone calorimetry)

Frontier News: Phosphate-Based Flame Retardant Additives for Lithium Battery Electrolytes

(Kim, Jin‐Hee, et al., 2025)

Core Challenge: Balancing flame suppression with electrochemical stability in next-gen batteries.

Innovative Solutions & Mechanisms

StrategyRepresentative CompoundsKey Advancements
Fluorinated PhosphatesTris(2,2,2-trifluoroethyl)phosphate (TFEP), 5F-TPrP
  • ↑ Oxidation stability (>4.8V vs Li/Li⁺)
  • Forms LiF-rich stable SEI
  • 30% TFEP: 89% capacity retention (50 cycles, NCM graphite)
MicroencapsulationPoly(urea-formaldehyde)-coated TCP
  • Delayed release prevents anode decomposition
  • Cycle life ↑ 80% (0.5C, 500 cycles)
  • Maintains 90% capacity at 20% loading
Polymerizable AdditivesTriallyl phosphate (TAP)
  • In-situ polymerization at electrodes
  • Self-extinguishing time: 0s (nail penetration)
  • 95% capacity retention (60°C, 100 cycles)
SEI/CEI ModifiersEthylene ethyl phosphate (EEP), Diphenyl octyl phosphate (DPOF)
  • EEP: Ring-opening polymerization → protective cathode film
  • DPOF: Aromatic groups enable<5% gas evolution at 60°C

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Reference

  1. Kim, Jin‐Hee, et al. Advanced Energy Materials (2025): 2500587.
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