NEC Corporation announced that it has succeeded in developing top level flame resistant biomass-source plastic (polylactic acid) without the use of such toxic materials as halogen and
phosphorus compounds (flame retarding additives). This bio-plastic* has passed top-level flame resistance standards regulated by Under Writer
laboratories (UL), which will enable it to be widely used in electronic products. In addition, it boasts other important properties such as heat resistance, moldability, and strength that are comparable to those of fiber-reinforced polycarbonate used in desktop-type electronic products. This development will realize the use of bio-plastics in electronic products as well as contributing to environmental friendliness.
Main characteristics of the bio-plastic include the following:
(1) Top-level flame resistance (UL94 5V and UL94 V-0/ 1.6mm test piece thickness) has been achieved by the use of a safe inorganic material that absorbs heat during ignition.
(2) Other important properties such as heat resistance, moldability, and strength have been satisfied by the addition of special
additives that improve these properties.