MIDLAND, Mich.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dow Global Technologies LLC (DGTL), a subsidiary of The Dow Chemical Company (NYSE: DOW), today announced the invention and development of a new, high molecular weight brominated Polymeric Flame Retardant (Polymeric FR). The Polymeric FR is expected to be the ‘next generation industry standard’ flame retardant for use in both extruded polystyrene (XPS) and expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam insulation applications globally. The development of the new Polymeric FR is the result of Dow’s continuing search for more sustainable products and in this case for a flame retardant that can replace hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD). Phased Commercialization Plans by licensees Today, DGTL also announced the first license agreement with Chemtura Corporation (NYSE: CHMT). This first license agreement makes it possible for Great Lakes Solutions, a Chemtura business, to produce and sell the newly developed Polymeric FR for use in XPS and EPS foam. DGTL is currently engaged in advanced licensing discussions with several other interested companies and expects to finalize these agreements by the end of the year. DGTL expects this will enable global supply security, foster market competition and help facilitate a smooth industry conversion to the new technology as EPS and XPS manufacturers adopt Polymeric FR, thereby becoming the new global standard.
