LATI flame-retardant compounds designed for electric mobility applications, with high flame resistance and electrical insulation
Automotive and transport, Flame-retardant, R&D
Automotive and transport, Flame-retardant, R&Dbyadmin

Material Evolution in the Electric Transition

Electric mobility is now a consolidated reality. By 2040, it is estimated that over 35% of new vehicle registrations will be electric or hybrid vehicles (BEV and PHEV).
This epochal change requires a profound technological transformation throughout the automotive supply chain, with increasing attention to electrical, thermal, and fire safety.

In electric vehicles, the energy storage and distribution systems, battery modules, and power electronic components must ensure absolute protection in every phase: operation, charging, parking, or accident.
In this context, the use of flame-retardant thermoplastic compounds represents a key solution for the safety and reliability of new mobility platforms.

Why Flame-Retardant Compounds are Essential

The increasing use of flame-retardant technopolymers stems from the need to protect vehicle electrical systems from overheating, short circuits, and flame ignition.
These materials offer:

  • Certified flame retardancy (UL94 V0 or higher)
  • Glow Wire Test resistance
  • High dielectric strength and electrical insulation
  • Thermal and mechanical resistance under severe conditions
  • Low smoke and toxic substance release in case of fire

Thanks to these characteristics, flame-retardant compounds are used in charging systems, connectors, electronic housings, inverters, battery supports, and electric motors.

The Safety Challenge in Electric Vehicles

In the electric powertrain and high-voltage systems (up to 800V), risks associated with high currents and potential short circuits require materials with dimensional stability and thermal aging resistance.
Flame-retardant compounds for electric mobility meet these requirements through optimized formulations with mineral reinforcements, glass fibers, and synergistic additives that ensure:

  • Long-term electrical stability, even in the presence of moisture or chemical agents.
  • Resistance to tracking currents (high CTI).
  • Compatibility with precision molding processes for complex components.

LATI’s Expertise in Flame-Retardant Compounds

With over fifty years of experience in flame-retardant thermoplastic compounds, LATI Industria Termoplastici S.p.A. offers advanced solutions for electric mobility and sustainable transport.
LATI materials are born from expertise developed in the E&E and railway sectors, where regulations regarding flame retardancy and electrical safety are among the most stringent.

LATI flame-retardant formulations now allow:

  • Reduced fire risk even in high-voltage systems.
  • Maintained high mechanical performance.
  • Offer solutions with low environmental impact, in line with ESG criteria and circular economy.

Wide Range of Flame-Retardant Technopolymers

The LATI portfolio covers all major families of thermoplastic resins with flame-retardant and reinforced grades, adaptable to every operating temperature level:

Base polymer

Main characteristics

Typical applications

PA, PBT

Excellent cost/performance balance, good processability

Connectors, electronic supports

PPS, PPA

High temperature and dimensional stability

Components near motor and inverter

PEEK

Extreme performance and thermal resistance above 250°C

Batteries, power modules, aerospace

Innovation and Safety for Future Transportation

LATI continues to develop next-generation flame-retardant compounds, designed to ensure safety, lightness, and sustainability in future electric vehicles.
Thanks to intensive research on halogen-free flame retardant materials and an approach oriented towards integrated component design, LATI supports manufacturers and designers in achieving functional and regulatory safety objectives.

Conclusion

Discover LATI’s range of flame-retardant compounds dedicated to electric mobility and request technical consultation to select the most suitable material for your application.

FAQ – Flame-retardant Compounds for Electric Mobility

  1. What requirements must a compound meet for electric mobility?
    It must offer flame retardancy (UL94 V0), electrical insulation, thermal resistance, and dimensional stability even in critical environments.
  2. In which electric vehicle components are flame-retardant compounds used?
    In battery modules, connectors, inverters, charging systems, and structural supports subject to high voltages.
  3. Are there sustainable alternatives to halogenated flame retardants?
    Yes, LATI develops halogen-free formulations with equivalent performance and lower environmental impact.