Directa Plus hopeful of flame retardancy breakthrough for graphene
25/01/2018
Its Graphene Plus (G+) material can confer flame retardancy on an object without the use of toxic chemicals, Directa Plus has said, adding: “This is a key differentiator, particularly for targeting the textiles market where manufacturers generally achieve flame retardancy through the addition of toxic chemicals to an object, or by the use of a chemical after-treatment.”
It said the development will be particularly relevant to workwear and protective clothing for emergency services, but the Italian company pointed out that there could also be applications for G+-enhanced flame-retardant textiles in sportswear, such as motorsports.
The grant of this patent gives Directa Plus a further competitive advantage and builds on previously received independent certifications that G+ textiles are non-irritating and safe for human skin. This includes a new hypoallergenic certification, received in December 2017, confirming that G+ textiles do not cause allergic reaction in human skin. The Company’s production process is chemical-free and this patent and the certifications are important differentiators for Directa Plus as well as being key requirements for some of the Company’s discussions within the textile industry as it continues the progress being made in the sector to capitalise on the opportunity for the widespread adoption of G+ materials in this target market.
The Company now has a portfolio of 16 patents granted and 16 pending. The majority of the granted patents relate to Directa Plus’ unique manufacturing process, along with some – including this latest patent – being product and application patents.
Directa Plus chief executive, Giulio Cesareo, said on announcing the development: “With growing international demand for flame-retardant products due to more stringent fire-safety and environmental requirements, as well as an increasing focus on sustainability, there is a significant market opportunity for our chemical-free, non-toxic graphene-based flame-retardant additive.”
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