FRs for EVery need: Fire safety in the electric vehicle era

The latest advancements in technology are changing the world of transportation, and efficient energy consumption is a major trend driving vehicle innovation. The Net Zero initiative is motivating the vehicle industry to abandon fossil fuels and embrace the electric revolution with both hands. 

Technological developments are accelerating the transition from traditional car engines to efficient electric motors, which in turn require novel solutions and brand-new components. For example, hybrids and electric vehicles are equipped with an abundance of electric cables and connectors, which rely on higher voltages and currents to charge and discharge the car battery. Hybrids and electrics rely on large lithium-ion batteries – a far cry from the acid-based batteries used in internal combustion engines.

Flame retardant solutions for the new driving era

It's common to think that EV infrastructure is safer than the infrastructure powering conventional vehicles. Yet EV technology is not risk-free, especially in terms of fire safety. The plastic materials enveloping EV cables and connectors must withstand high voltages without arcing; in case of a fire, they can potentially fuel the flames and therefore must exhibit exceptional flame-resistant qualities. Lithium-ion batteries pose new risks, as well. A malfunction, defect or accident can cause a thermal runaway mechanism that culminates in the battery bursting into flames. 

Flame retardant solutions for electric vehicles cover a large variety of applications. Much like traditional cabins, the EV cabin includes many textiles, polymers, sealants and adhesives that must meet flame retardancy standards. As for components that are unique to EVs – we can mention cables and inverters but also the charging stations, battery enclosures, and battery & charging connectors. Furthermore, the electric vehicles' infotainment components and computing systems must also be deemed fire safe.

360° protection for EV drivers and passengers

ICL has extensive experience in developing and supplying flame retardants for the global automotive industry. This expertise has placed ICL's experts in an ideal position to develop novel solutions and supply FRs for the growing EV market. 

Impacting many EV vehicle components, ICL's high-performance flame retardants prioritize the safety of drivers and passengers. From a fire safety standpoint, these solutions are top-notch. Yet with new regulations focusing on themes that range from sustainability to environmental leaching, today's new FRs must exhibit more than just fire safety prowess.  

ICL has a diversified portfolio of advanced polymeric and reactive flame retardants, which are based on different chemistries such as bromine, phosphorus and magnesium. With their strong polymeric bonds and low diffusivity, these flame retardants are safer for both human health and the environment. These solutions – along with many other FRs for other industries – are part of what ICL calls "The Right Choice", which is short for "Right for People, Right for Planet, Right for Progress."

In addition to molecules and elements, innovative production methods also play a key role in promoting FR sustainability and safety. ICL's unique production method, which relies on water evaporation, solar energy and a highly concentrated resource, helps create low carbon footprint solutions whose added value far exceeds those of other industry solutions.

A gateway to the next FRontier

EVs are changing the transportation world, so it's only natural that flame retardants for EVs are spearheading the optimization of FR safety. Alongside its impressive reactive, non-halogenated flame retardant portfolio, ICL is actively promoting FR innovation through a unique initiative named FRontier. Bringing together experts to address the industry's most urgent challenges, FRontier nurtures a culture of open exploration, as R&D teams develop groundbreaking solutions to specific industry requirements. This synergetic approach is realized via internal company collaborations, as well as partnerships with scientists and researchers from academia, the global start-up ecosystem and industry giants.

The promising road ahead

We are developing cutting-edge FR technologies for a better future. Join us on our mission and gain exclusive access to ICL's pioneering R&D capabilities, unique expertise and worldwide commercial reach.