Exel Composites introduces fire-rated composite for building and infrastructure use
Iain Hoey
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Fire-rated material meets two European standards
Exel Composites has developed a new non halogenated fire-rated composite material that meets key European building standards and has been validated through independent third-party testing in France and the UK.
Exel Composites said the material was tested in accordance with EN 13501 1 and achieved a Euroclass B s2, d0 reaction to fire classification.
Testing by British and French laboratories found the material made a limited contribution to fire, with low smoke production and no flaming droplets.
The material also meets EN 13706 mechanical performance class E23 for pultruded composite profiles.
The company said this addresses a long standing issue in construction applications, where fire retardant composite materials have often lacked clearly defined mechanical classifications aligned with European standards.
Neil Dykes, Technical Sales Manager at Exel Composites, said: “This development is significant due to the removal of the traditionally used halogens which are heavily regulated because of health and safety issues.
“The new material formulation has demonstrated Euroclass B fire performance in external laboratories, while still complying with EN 13706 E23 mechanical requirements.”
Fire-rated composite designed for multiple applications
The formulation can be applied across different profile designs, starting from a wall thickness of three millimeters upwards.
Applications named by the company include façade and envelope elements and frames for fire rated doors.
The material is also intended for technical joinery and modular housing structures.
Dykes added: “This gives designers and engineers a clear and reliable basis for specification, alongside CEN/TS 19101:2022, which defines the European design rules for FRP composite structures.”
The company said the non halogenated solution is already available across its production sites in Europe, Asia and North America.
By validating fire behaviour and mechanical performance through recognised European standards and independent testing, the material is positioned for construction and infrastructure applications in Europe.
