First Graphene has provided an update on its graphene-enhanced fire-retardant materials developed for construction and housing. Novel flame-resistant material containing PureGRAPH®, developed by strategic UK-based partner Vector Group, has been filed for patent in Europe, Asia and the United States.
Recent testing of the graphene-enhanced material has reportedly demonstrated excellent flame resistance and mechanical performance, showcasing the fundamental value of PureGRAPH® to the products. Results include a self-extinguishing rate of 100% in various formulations containing a range of
PureGRAPH® loadings, which is a significant improvement in performance compared to conventional non-halogenated materials.
Flame retardancy was also enhanced at lower loadings of PureGRAPH®, reducing need for higher volumes of fire-resistant phosphorous-based additives, which are known to have adverse environmental and health impacts. Tensile and modulus performance was also improved with the addition of PureGRAPH®, enhancing safety and structural integrity outcomes.
Research has found non-halogenated fire-retardant additives can have a detrimental effect on both material performance – including strength and durability – and fire resistance as loading goes up. Work conducted by Vector has shown very small volumes of graphene combined with non-halogenated retardants boosts material performance and fire resistance by lowering additive dosage rates.
First Graphene Managing Director and CEO Michael Bell said: “Patent filings for graphene enhanced fire-retardant materials is a major milestone for both
companies as well as the broader construction industry. This innovative flame-resistant material will provide the sector with a safer and more sustainable
solution at a time regulations are tightening around fire safety in homes and buildings, with a clear shift away from dangerous halogenated fire-retardant materials. We look forward to seeing the patent progress and are excited to take the next step in our journey with Vector Group as we work towards commercialization of this industry-changing material.”
Vector Group CEO Nathan Feddy said: “We are proud to have achieved this important milestone in collaboration with First Graphene. The successful patent filings mark a pivotal step towards delivering safer, stronger, and more sustainable fire-resistant materials to the global construction industry.
Incorporation of PureGRAPH® into our formulations has unlocked significant improvements in performance, enabling us to address both regulatory demands and environmental concerns. This innovation reflects Vector Group’s commitment to transforming the way construction materials are designed and applied. By reducing reliance on harmful additives while improving fire safety and structural integrity, we are setting new benchmarks for the industry. We look forward to advancing commercial opportunities alongside First Graphene and ensuring these technologies play a leading role in shaping safer and more resilient infrastructure worldwide.”
The graphene-enhanced materials will be particularly beneficial for housing and infrastructure projects where stringent fire-safety standards are required using non-halogenated additives – both in terms of new builds and refurbishing existing buildings with safer products.
First Graphene has been supplying Vector with PureGRAPH® to develop this innovative material since 2023 as part of a Strategic Partnership Agreement between the companies. Under the multi-year deal, First Graphene will continue to work with Vector to develop and deliver graphene-enhanced materials to the global construction industry.
