There are hundreds of applications where flame retardant sheet becomes the best, or only, choice depending on regulations and performance demands.

Today’s fire-rated polymers are efficient and effective options for use in many situations.  Since as early as World War II, research on flame retardant plastics has led to the improvements that we see in the materials available today.  Not only are materials more resistant to degradation at high temperatures, but other performance characteristics are also uncompromised, and may even be enhanced – such as impact strength, chemical resistance and weatherability.

Testing for polymer flammability varies around the world, but in the United States one of the most common and widely accepted tests is the UL 94 small flame test administered by Underwriters’ Laboratories. Other tests include ASTM E-84 or FMVSS 302 tests, to name just a few.  Having these specifications associated with a fire-rated polymer is key to your selection of a suitable option for your application.

When choosing a flame retardant material for any application, look for a sheet with exceptional thermoforming capabilities and well-balanced properties in an individual grade that suits your specific use.  Applications for fire-rated sheet vary across a number of industries.  Some of the more common applications include:

Building & Construction – anywhere stringent building codes specify flame-rated materials, especially skyscrapers and other smaller footprint buildings

Aerospace – combining lightweight and high impact strength for small aircraft applications such as tray tables, armrests or overhead storage bins

Transportation – in bus and rail usage including seat backs and side panels

Medical & Electrical – large medical or electronic devices including hospital beds, diagnostic equipment, monitors and housings