Bio-based fire retardant insulative materials for optimized thermal performance

Technology
Conceptual
Company

Impact Solutions presents a bio-based fire retardant material for advanced insulation, offering a high R-value and Class A fire performance. Ideal for space-constrained buildings, it combines sustainability with market readiness and scalability.

Overview

Impact Solutions has developed an innovative bio-based fire retardant insulative material that delivers exceptional thermal performance, particularly suited for space-constrained existing buildings. This material offers a high R-value per inch, surpassing traditional polystyrene foams, while maintaining excellent Class A fire performance through robust char formation. The solution is sustainably sourced and can be precisely engineered into various forms, including fiber-derived structures, making it adaptable for diverse insulation needs.

Technical specifications

Key features:

  • Bio-based material achieving R-value of 7+ per inch
  • Class A fire performance verified according to UL790/ASTM E84 standards
  • Compatible with precision manufacturing at scale
  • Tailored for space-constrained building retrofits
  • Fully biodegradable and recyclable, guided by Impact's end-of-life expertise

Impact Solutions employs an extensive suite of analytical and mechanical testing techniques to ensure material properties such as porosity and density are optimized for performance. The development plan follows a rigorous phase-based approach, ensuring thermal performance and safety compliance.

Technology readiness level

Currently at Technology Readiness Level 2, the material is in the early stages of development with ongoing formulation optimization and property characterization. Future validation will include R-value testing, fire rating verification, and scalability assessments to ensure the material is market-ready and eco-responsible.


About Impact Solutions

Impact Solutions is an independent UKAS and ISO 17025 accredited laboratory and innovation centre based in Scotland, specialising in materials testing, product development, and consultancy. Founded in 2002 as a spin-out from BP Chemicals, the company has evolved from a small test facility into a comprehensive service provider for the plastics, polymer, packaging, and chemical sectors. They provide a range of technical services, including failure analysis, accelerated weathering, biodegradation testing, and bespoke research and development. Through their Impact-Bio® platform, they offer specialised support for the development and verification of sustainable, biodegradable materials, helping clients navigate regulatory compliance and innovation challenges.

The company serves a global client base, ranging from local enterprises to multinational conglomerates, across industries such as automotive, recycling, and renewable energy. By acting as an independent expert, Impact Solutions helps partners bridge the gap between initial concept and commercialisation, providing the technical evidence needed to support sustainability claims and product integrity. They offer expertise in polymer science and petrochemicals, assisting with material characterisation, quality assurance, and grant applications for R&D projects. Their facility in Livingston acts as a hub for both testing and collaborative innovation, enabling clients to address technical challenges, improve product performance, and meet complex environmental standards.

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