Graphene-Enhanced Materials Achieve 100% Self-Extinguishing Rate in New Patents

A Breakthrough in Fire Safety for Construction

First Graphene Limited (ASX – FGR) has announced a significant milestone in its ongoing collaboration with UK-based Vector Group, which has filed patents across Europe, Asia, and the United States for innovative fire-resistant construction materials containing PureGRAPH graphene. These novel materials have demonstrated remarkable fire-retardant properties, including a 100% self-extinguishing rate in various formulations, marking a substantial improvement over conventional non-halogenated fire retardants.

Addressing Regulatory and Environmental Challenges

The timing of this development aligns closely with tightening fire safety regulations, particularly in the UK, where new building codes and the establishment of a Building Safety Regulator have raised the bar for fire preparedness in construction materials. Vector’s graphene-enhanced formulations reduce the need for higher volumes of phosphorus-based additives, which have known environmental and health drawbacks. This innovation offers a safer, more sustainable alternative that meets both regulatory demands and growing environmental concerns.

Enhanced Performance Beyond Fire Resistance

Beyond fire safety, the incorporation of PureGRAPH has also improved the mechanical properties of these materials, including tensile strength and modulus. This dual benefit enhances structural integrity and safety, critical factors for housing and infrastructure projects worldwide. The global construction market, projected to reach over USD 16 trillion by 2030, stands to benefit significantly from such advancements.

Strategic Partnership and Commercialisation Prospects

First Graphene has been supplying PureGRAPH to Vector since 2023 under a multi-year strategic partnership. Both companies are now focused on progressing the patent process and moving towards commercialisation. The partnership aims to deliver these industry-changing materials to markets where stringent fire safety standards are increasingly mandatory, including both new construction and refurbishment projects.

Executives from both companies expressed optimism about the potential impact of this technology. First Graphene’s CEO Michael Bell highlighted the milestone as a major step for the construction sector, while Vector’s CEO Nathan Feddy emphasized the innovation’s role in reducing harmful additives and setting new industry benchmarks.