New Stabilizer Can Offer Improved Flame Retardant Properties, Materials Reduction

 

ALBANY, N.Y., December 4, 2008 – Momentive Performance Materials today announced the launch of Niax* silicone L-655, a silicone stabilizer to be considered for use in manufacturing flexible polyether foam. The new stabilizer can offer a ten to thirty percent reduction by weight of flame retardant use in slabstock foam applications compared to conventional stabilizers. Additionally, Niax silicone L-655 may be applied in conventional foam manufacturing processes, and those that use carbon dioxide (CO2) as an auxiliary blowing agent.

 

“This new stabilizer is an excellent and versatile candidate for use in a wide range of slabstock foam applications, and may help manufacturers increase the performance of their foam, while significantly reducing flame retardant use,” said Alberto Melle, Global Marketing Manager, Momentive. When utilized in flame retardant (FR) grades of foam used in furniture, bedding, and automotive products, Niax silicone L-655 can help minimize the amount of flame retardant required for passing small-scale tests such as California Technical Bulletin 117 and MVSS-302. In addition to its typically outstanding FR improvement, use of new Niax silicone L-655 may also translate into reduced material costs for manufacturers using Momentive’s Niax silicones. Momentive’s Niax silicone L-655 can help provide excellent froth formation and stability (as required in CO2 processes) to make soft and low-density foam grades. Compared to Niax silicone L-650, Niax silicone L-655 can also deliver wide processing latitude and improved cell structure in CO2 processes. Also, Niax silicone L-655 may help substantially boost flame-retardant performance for flexible polyurethane foam at reduced use levels. To find out more about Momentive’s Niax family of products, please call 800.295.2392 in North America (+607.786.8131 everywhere else) or visit www.momentive.com.

 

About Momentive

Momentive Performance Materials Inc. is a premier specialty materials company, providing hightechnology materials solutions to the silicones, quartz and ceramics markets. The company, as a global leader with worldwide operations, has a robust product portfolio, an enduring tradition of service excellence, and industry-leading research and development capabilities. Momentive Performance Materials Inc. is controlled by an affiliate of Apollo Management, L.P. Additional information is available at www.momentive.com.