US-based FRX Polymers (Chelmsford, Massachusetts; www.frxpolymers.com) has opened a commercial-scale plant in Antwerp / Belgium, for the production of its "Nofia" halogen-free flame-retardant (FR) plastics. The site, based on the latest polycondensation technology, was designed by German industrial plant supplier Uhde Inventa-Fischer (Berlin; www.uhde-inventa-fischer.com) – see Plasteurope.com of 18.06.2013.

Marc Lebel, president and CEO of FRX Polymers, said: “The opening of the new plant strengthens our ability to supply global markets, significantly expands our manufacturing infrastructure and establishes production capabilities to meet increased demand for environmentally friendly alternatives to bromine-based FR products.” He added that the plant’s location on Bayer’s site in Antwerp means most of the raw materials needed to make the FR polymers are produced just a few metres away.

According to FRX Polymers, its Nofia range enhances flame retardancy with little impact on the properties of the plastic, retaining transparency and enabling processability in several engineering resin systems. Nofia polyphosphonates also provide a good balance of properties when used in FR biorenewable polymers and recycled fibres and plastics, the company added. It sees growing demand for Nofia products in multiple markets including electronic devices, lighting and fixtures, fibre for commercial textiles, automotive, aerospace, and building and construction.