BIO-IFR is designed for forward-thinking builders, suppliers, and composite manufacturers who want to meet fire safety standards without compromising on sustainability.

Many conventional flame retardants rely on halogens and toxic substances like antimony trioxide, which pose environmental and health risks. ECOFUNC aims to develop a bio-based intumescent flame retardant (BIO-IFR) that offers a safer, more sustainable alternative without compromising on performance or compliance with European safety standards. While the goal is to create a 100% natural solution, challenges remain—such as ensuring effectiveness at scale, maintaining cost-efficiency, and avoiding the need for excessive quantities compared to synthetic options.

To reduce the environmental and health risks linked to traditional flame retardants, ECOFUNC is developing a new bio-based alternative called BIO-IFR. This solution uses natural ingredients to help prevent fires, offering a safer and more sustainable option for manufacturers. BIO-IFR is designed to meet strict European safety standards while remaining easy to process and apply. Although creating a fully natural flame retardant is challenging, especially when scaling up, this approach represents a promising step toward greener materials that don’t compromise on performance.

Proof of Concept

BIO-IFR represents a meaningful shift toward safer and more sustainable flame protection. Inspired by principles of environmental care and human safety, this solution avoids harmful chemicals and instead uses bio-based ingredients. It’s especially innovative because natural flame retardants have never been developed for PHA (polyhydroxyalkanoates), a biodegradable plastic. By filling this gap, BIO-IFR could open new possibilities for eco-friendly materials in industries that require fire safety, helping reduce toxic exposure and support a more responsible use of resources.

This solution is especially relevant for the building and construction industry, including its entire network of suppliers and partners. It also supports composite manufacturers who are looking for safer, more sustainable flame retardant options. By offering a bio-based alternative, BIO-IFR helps these sectors meet safety standards while moving toward greener production practices.

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