Albemarle plans a new eco flame retardant

Speciality chemicals maker Albemarle Corporation recently announced its first flame retardant from the company’s new Earthwise brand. GreenArmor will be commercially available in late 2010.

The new organic flame retardant can be used in a variety of plastic resins, including consumer and commercial products. The production process for GreenArmor minimises the use of raw materials, energy, byproducts and waste, according to Albemarle. Other Earthwise environmental criteria include improved recyclability or reuse, the use of non-toxic materials, and favourable greenhouse gas footprint for its manufacturing process.

“The launch of the Earthwise family of eco-friendly products marks a new direction in speciality chemicals and is expected to grow to include products from other business units and divisions,” Dave Clary, Albemarle’s Chief Sustainability Officer.