A New Standard for Flame Retardant Materials
When it comes to choosing flame-retardant materials for electrical and electronic (E&E) components, many manufacturers still rely on red phosphorus-based PA66 compounds. While these materials have been widely used for years, they come with a set of challenges that are becoming harder to ignore—especially as product safety, reliability, and sustainability take center stage.
That’s where LEONA™ SN Series comes in. Developed by Asahi Kasei, this advanced PA66 resin is halogen-free and red phosphorus-free, offering an innovative solution that doesn’t compromise on performance or safety. It’s designed to meet the strict requirements of today’s automotive and E&E applications while eliminating the risks associated with older flame-retardant technologies.
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Strong Performance Without the Risks
Red phosphorus materials can achieve flame retardancy, but they also introduce several problems:
- Migration: Over time, red phosphorus can migrate from the resin, leading to surface contamination and potential electrical failures.
- Difficult Processing: These materials require strict drying and handling to avoid degradation.
- Lower Electrical Ratings: Red phosphorus compounds often have lower CTI (Comparative Tracking Index) values, limiting their use in high-voltage components.
LEONA™ SN Series addresses these issues head-on with:
- UL94 V-0 flame resistance at just 0.75 mm thickness, without using halogens or red phosphorus
- CTI rating of 600V, suitable for high-voltage and safety-critical systems
- Glow-Wire Ignition Temperature (GWIT) of 750°C, providing greater resistance to electrical failure
- Excellent thermal and moisture resistance, which helps preserve mechanical properties over time
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Clear Laser Marking and Traceability
One of the biggest drawbacks of red phosphorus compounds is poor laser printability. Inconsistent surface quality and dark coloring make it hard to achieve legible markings, which can interfere with traceability and compliance.
LEONA™ SN, on the other hand, was developed with laser marking in mind:
- High laser transparency allows for clean, reliable laser welding
- Sharp, high-contrast surface markings ensure part numbers, QR codes, and regulatory info remain readable
- Reliable traceability helps manufacturers stay compliant and protect product integrity
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Designed with the Environment in Mind
As regulations tighten and sustainability becomes a bigger priority, manufacturers are under pressure to reduce hazardous substances and improve recyclability. LEONA™ SN helps meet these goals by:
- Avoiding halogens and red phosphorus—reducing corrosion risk and improving safety during recycling
- Meeting RoHS and REACH regulations for safer manufacturing and use
- Achieving EN 45545-2 HL3 approval, the highest flame safety standard for railway applications
- Improving production efficiency, thanks to better processability and reduced scrap rates
The Bottom Line: Why Choose LEONA™ SN?
If your current flame-retardant PA66 material relies on red phosphorus, it may be time to upgrade. LEONA™ SN Series offers:
- Stronger flame and electrical performance (UL94 V-0, CTI 600V, GWIT 750°C)
- Better laser marking, welding, and traceability
- A safer, more sustainable, and regulation-friendly alternative
Let’s Talk
Ready to explore red phosphorus-free PA66 options for your next project? Our team of material experts is here to help. Whether you're looking to improve product safety, simplify compliance, or boost production efficiency, LEONA™ SN can make a measurable difference.
Contact us today to learn more about how our engineered plastics can power your next project.
Help Us. Help You
Superior Performance. White Glove Service. Unrivaled Support. Learn Why Switching to Asahi Kasei Plastics North America's materials is Stress-Free.
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