In the realm of material science, achieving optimal fire safety often requires more than a single additive. Synergism – the phenomenon where the combined effect of two or more agents is greater than the sum of their individual effects – plays a crucial role. High-purity zinc borate, supplied by NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD., is a prime example of an additive that exhibits powerful synergistic capabilities, particularly when paired with other flame retardants. This article delves into how these combinations enhance fire performance.

Zinc borate itself is an effective flame retardant, but its true potential is often unlocked through strategic combination with other additives. In halogen-free flame retardant systems, it commonly works in concert with metal hydroxides like alumina trihydrate (ATH) and magnesium hydroxide (MDH). These metal hydroxides also function by releasing water upon heating, which cools the material and dilutes flammable gases. When combined with zinc borate, the synergistic interaction can lead to improved char formation, enhanced thermal stability, and a more robust protective barrier.

For instance, in polyolefins like polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP), a combination of zinc borate and ATH can provide superior flame retardancy and smoke suppression compared to using either additive alone. Zinc borate’s contribution to char formation complements ATH's cooling effect, creating a more resilient char layer that better insulates the underlying material. This makes zinc borate an excellent flame retardant synergist for polymers, allowing for the development of materials that meet rigorous safety standards.

Another important synergistic partner for zinc borate is phosphorus-based flame retardants, such as ammonium polyphosphate (APP). APP is a highly effective intumescent flame retardant, meaning it forms a swollen, insulating char layer upon heating. When combined with zinc borate, the boron oxide layer formed by zinc borate can stabilize and strengthen the intumescent char created by APP. This dual action results in a highly effective fire barrier that significantly reduces heat release and flame spread. This interaction is crucial for applications requiring a high degree of fire resistance.

In halogen-containing systems, zinc borate is often used alongside antimony trioxide. While the trend is moving towards halogen-free solutions, understanding these historical synergies is still relevant. In these systems, zinc borate can help catalyze the release of halogens from the polymer, and the resulting zinc halides can further contribute to flame inhibition. Antimony trioxide, in turn, works by forming antimony oxyhalides that interfere with radical chain reactions in the flame zone.

NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. provides high-purity zinc borate, an essential component for formulating advanced flame retardant systems. By understanding and leveraging the synergistic effects of zinc borate with co-additives, manufacturers can achieve unparalleled fire safety performance in their products, from robust plastics and resilient rubbers to protective coatings and textiles. We invite you to consult with our technical team to explore the optimal synergistic combinations for your specific material needs and to discuss the purchase of our premium zinc borate.