Clariant marks 50 years of Exolit AP flame retardants with melamine-free product launch
Iain Hoey
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Clariant celebrates 50 years of Exolit AP technology in Germany
Clariant has reported that its Exolit AP flame retardant technology has reached 50 years of production at its site in Knapsack, Germany.
The company said the Exolit AP product line, which is based on ammonium polyphosphate (APP), began production in 1975 and is used across multiple sectors including coatings, insulation foams and thermoset composites.
The manufacturer explained that Exolit AP is used in fire protection products such as intumescent coatings and fire stop systems, and that the product range continues to evolve with new formulations and regulatory targets in mind.
New melamine-free grade introduced for sustainability compliance
Clariant has introduced a melamine-free version of Exolit AP that it said is free from substances of very high concern (SVHC).
The company explained that the new grade was developed to meet increased demand for safer and more environmentally responsible flame retardants, including from manufacturers seeking alternatives to formulations containing substances of concern.
According to Clariant, the new Exolit AP variant maintains its resistance to fire and is suitable for use in passive fire protection systems and insulation applications.
The company said this launch reflects changing consumer expectations, referencing parallel shifts in demand for PFAS-free products across other markets.
Exolit AP 435 to be updated for future regulations
Clariant has announced that it is working on an enhanced version of Exolit AP 435 that will align with future regulatory requirements.
According to the company, this next-generation version is intended to maintain the water-based performance and shelf-life stability of the existing product while incorporating updates that reflect emerging legislative standards.
It stated that Exolit AP 435 has been in use since 2015 and has set the benchmark for stability in fire retardant formulations.
The update is being presented as a continuation of the company’s effort to maintain fire protection performance while responding to changes in legislation and customer requirements.
Clariant reflects on milestones and collaboration in fire safety
Clariant noted that the first batch of Exolit AP was manufactured in 1975 and has since expanded into a portfolio of solutions for fire protection in construction and industrial markets.
The company outlined several milestones in the product’s development, including the launch of Exolit AP 462 in 1983 and Exolit AP 435 in 2015.
Achim Hennemann, Head of Market Segment Passive Fire Protection, said: “Through changing times and evolving industry needs, Exolit AP has remained at the forefront of innovation.
“From its origins in Hoechst AG to becoming a cornerstone of Clariant’s portfolio in 1997, each decade has brought new challenges and achievements.
“The introduction of Exolit AP 462 in 1983 marked our first major breakthrough in encapsulated ammonium polyphosphate technology, setting new industry standards for performance and reliability.”
Adrian Beard, Global Industry Market Manager Flame Retardants, added: “The launch of melamine-free Exolit AP represents more than just a new product.
“It embodies our commitment to combining five decades of expertise with tomorrow’s sustainability demands.”
Stefan Brejc, Global Vice President Segment Coatings & Adhesives, said: “The same pioneering spirit that drove our first innovations in 1975 still drives us today.
“As we celebrate this golden anniversary, we’re not just looking back at 50 years of achievement, we’re building on this foundation to create the next generation of more sustainable flame retardants.”
Clariant marks 50 years of Exolit AP flame retardants with melamine-free product launch: Summary
Clariant reported that Exolit AP flame retardants have been produced for 50 years at its Knapsack site in Germany.
The company said the technology is based on ammonium polyphosphate and is used in fire protection applications such as coatings and insulation.
It confirmed the launch of a melamine-free grade of Exolit AP that does not include substances of very high concern.
Clariant stated that this responds to demand for safer alternatives in passive fire protection systems.
The manufacturer announced it is developing an updated version of Exolit AP 435 for future regulatory compliance.
According to Clariant, the new version will maintain current product stability while introducing formulation improvements.
The company highlighted key historical milestones in the product line, including launches in 1983, 2015 and 2024.
Clariant said that customer collaboration continues to shape the development of new flame retardant products.
