ATH Aluminum Trihydrate (Standard Grade, d50 8µm)
Key Features
- Halogen-free flame retardant with simultaneous smoke suppression
- Endothermic decomposition releases ~34.5% bound water above 200°C
- Bright white color with low resin color impact
- Compatible with silane or stearic acid surface treatment
- Cost-effective FR solution for UPR, VER, and epoxy systems
Aluminum trihydrate (ATH), also known as alumina trihydrate or aluminum hydroxide, is the most widely used halogen-free flame retardant and smoke suppressant filler in the composites industry. This standard grade features a median particle size of approximately 8 µm, making it suitable for a broad range of filled resin systems including unsaturated polyester resins, vinyl ester resins, and epoxy compounds.
ATH functions by an endothermic decomposition mechanism: at temperatures above 200°C it releases chemically bound water (approximately 34.5 wt%), absorbing heat from the substrate and diluting combustible gases with water vapor. This dual action results in excellent flame spread retardancy and outstanding smoke suppression, meeting requirements of BS 476, UL 94 V-0, and IMO FTP Code standards at appropriate loading levels (typically 100–180 phr).
The standard grade offers good compatibility with polyester and epoxy matrices and can be surface-treated with silane or stearic acid to improve dispersion and reduce viscosity impact. Typical applications include sanitaryware composites, bath panels, building panels, cable compounds, and flame-retardant FRP profiles. Its bright white color and refractive index close to many resin systems also make it a useful opacifying agent.
Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearance | White powder |
| Top cut (d98) | ≤ 30 µm |
| BET surface area | 3–5 m²/g |
| Moisture content | ≤ 0.3% |
| pH (10% suspension) | 9.0–10.0 |
| Bulk density (tapped) | 0.5–0.7 g/cm³ |
| Loss on ignition (LOI) | 34.0–35.0% |
| Median particle size (d50) | 8 µm |
| Al₂O₃ content (dry basis) | ≥ 99.5% |
Applications
FAQ
Typically 120–160 phr in UPR systems is required to achieve UL 94 V-0. The exact level depends on resin chemistry, laminate thickness, and presence of synergists like zinc borate. Aluminum hydroxide works best when combined with other FR additives for a system approach.
Direct Contact
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