Ahlstrom, a global leader in fiber-based specialty materials, introduces a facer with enhanced Flame-Gard™ technology. It is designed to improve fire resistance in the building and construction industry, along with other key performance attributes. Ahlstrom launches Flame-Gard™ facer paper that will char but not support fire and will self-extinguish when the source of flame is eliminated.
Flame-Gard™ technology is a response to market demand for greater flame-retardant product materials. The awareness and increased regulation have led to stringent building codes to safeguard public health and safety.
In addition to its flame-retardant properties, the Ahlstrom launches Flame-Gard™ facer provides improved mechanical strength of insulation boards. This helps them remain flat throughout the manufacturing process and during end-use. The materials keep a balance between high flame resistance and low water absorption, two properties that are quite difficult to combine.
The Flame-Gard™ facer can be surface-sized to minimise water absorption and delamination if the insulation board is exposed to moisture during its lifetime. The facer can be laminated with insulation foam or aluminum foil and is free from halogen, bromine, and chlorine-based compounds. Risk of cracks and creases during lamination can be minimised by the well-balanced in-plane structure. The facer comes in a natural, unbleached version, which may support customers’ sustainability goals.
“With Ahlstrom’s Flame-Gard™ technology, customers can enhance the fire performance of their final products and meet the required regulatory standards. The technology can be applied to various substrates making it a flexible solution”, says Eva Thunholm, Vice President, Technical Materials.
The facer is produced in a combined mill where pulp as well as paper are manufactured on site. This guarantees a controlled and efficient production process.
