Zinc Borate
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Zinc Borate is a chemical compound commonly used as a flame retardant, smoke suppressant, and anti-fungal agent in producing PVC, polyolefins, and other polymers. It is a white, crystalline powder.
As a flame retardant, Zinc Borate helps prevent the spread of flames in the polymer when exposed to fire by releasing water molecules when heated to avoid it from igniting. It also forms a protective layer of char when exposed to flames, which helps to insulate the polymer and prevent the fire from spreading.
As a smoke suppressant, Zinc Borate helps to reduce the amount of smoke and toxic gases produced when the polymer is exposed to fire. This is important for people to escape from a fire.
Zinc Borate acts as an anti-fungal agent to prevent the growth of fungi and mold on the surface of the polymer. This can stop discoloration, odor, and even structural damage to the polymer over time.
In addition to its flame retardant, smoke suppressant, and anti-fungal properties, Zinc Borate also acts as a lubricant in the production of polymers. It helps to reduce the friction between the polymer particles and the processing equipment, making it easier to extrude, inject, or blow mold the polymer into the desired shape.
Zinc Borate is combined with other additives, such as antimony trioxide, to achieve the desired level of fire resistance. It is also used as a flame retardant in polymers such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and nylon.