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Safer Flame Retardants

Sustainable Processing of Non-Halogenated Flame Retardants

Dr. Ramaswamy Nagarajan and Dr. Jayant Kumar continued their research into naturally derived flame retardants (based on cashew nut oil) and non-halogenated phenol based oligomers for use in textile applications. The researchers plan to continue their investigations in collaboration with industry partners to test and optimize their non-halogenated flame retardants for carpet and other textile applications.

Halogen-free Flame Retardants and Antioxidants Derived from Naturally Occurring Materials

Drs. Ramaswamy Nagarajan and Jayant Kumar of UMass Lowell built upon the research they initiated in FY08 by focusing on a promising naturally derived flame retardant material - cashew nutshell liquid (CNSL). This research investigated the flame retardancy and antioxidation properties of CNSL-derived polymers specifically for use in textiles. Providing technically-viable alternatives to traditional petroleum based flame retardants such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) is important as the use of these compounds are being restricted or banned by some states and national governments.

  • UMass Lowell research funded by TURI receives top award from EPA
    Research funded by TURI has been recognized by EPA in its People, Planet and Prosperity (P3) program, and was one of 6 student projects awarded a 2011 Extramural Research Grant
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