OREANDA-NEWS. BASF has developed a new epoxy resin which improves the properties of the Palusol(r) fire-protection panels. The epoxy resin is set to be used in Palusol(r) production from 2016.

The new generation of Palusol(r) fire-protection panels delivers a greater protective effect thanks to improved barrier properties. These include higher thermal resilience and lower permeability to water vapor and carbon dioxide substances which would change the chemical composition of the panels and prevent them from expanding and thus have an adverse effect on their resistance to heat.

The viscosity of the new epoxy resin coating is also lower, which means that the coating that is applied in production is spread more evenly on the Palusol(r) panel. In addition, the new coating dries faster on the foam compared to the conventional type of coating. The primary aim of complying with the requirements of the REACH European chemicals regulation is again met by the new generation of fire-protection panels.

"The aim of our development work was to develop an improved formulation to deliver significant benefits both for us in the manufacturing process and for customers using the product," says Michael Kopietz, head of production for Palusol(r). "Tests prove that we have achieved these aims and we are delighted that we will soon be able to begin series production."

At present, a number of customers are already being provided with samples of the new Palusol(r) fire-protection panels. Series production will commence in the course of 2016 at the production site in Frankenthal.