In fields such as electrical systems, rail transit, construction, and industrial manufacturing, safety standards are steadily rising. Higher demands are being placed on flame resistance, environmental performance, and material reliability. Against this backdrop, flame-retardant LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) and FRPE (Flame-Retardant Polyethylene) have become mainstream material choices. Although both provide flame resistance, they differ fundamentally in material structure, safety focus, and application environments.
Angreen New Materials has long focused on polymer modification technologies. By targeting critical application scenarios, the company continues to deliver high-performance LSZH and FRPE solutions that meet the dual needs of safety and durability across different industries.
This article presents a structured comparison of flame-retardant LSZH and FRPE from multiple perspectives, including material definition, chemical composition, flame-retardant mechanisms, performance priorities, and typical applications. The goal is to support engineers and manufacturers in making more precise material decisions.
Flame-retardant LSZH is a halogen-free polymer material. Under fire or high-temperature conditions, it significantly reduces smoke density and avoids the release of toxic or corrosive gases. For this reason, it is widely used in crowded or enclosed spaces such as rail transit systems, public buildings, data centers, and medical facilities, where human safety and equipment protection are critical.
FRPE is based on polyethylene and achieves flame resistance through the addition of flame-retardant systems. It can delay ignition and slow the spread of flames while maintaining the original mechanical properties of polyethylene. This makes FRPE well suited for industrial applications that require high structural strength, long service life, and good processability.
Overall, both materials serve fire-safety objectives, but their design approaches and application priorities are clearly different.
Flame-Retardant LSZH
Halogen-free formulation (no chlorine or bromine), reducing the risk of toxic smoke
Smoke suppression based on metal hydroxides such as aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide
No acidic gas release, suitable for enclosed spaces like subways and hospitals
Flame-retardant LSZH uses a fully halogen-free formulation. By eliminating chlorine and bromine, it reduces the generation of toxic fumes at the source during combustion. Its flame-retardant and smoke-suppressing performance mainly comes from metal hydroxide fillers, which absorb heat and release water when decomposed. This lowers surface temperature and dilutes combustible gases.
In addition, LSZH produces almost no acidic gases during burning. This greatly reduces harm to the human respiratory system and corrosion damage to metal equipment, giving it clear advantages in enclosed or semi-enclosed environments.
FRPE (Flame-Retardant Polyethylene)
Typically contains flame-retardant additives such as antimony trioxide and phosphorus compounds
Some grades may release small amounts of halogenated substances depending on formulation
Achieves self-extinguishing behavior while maintaining mechanical strength
FRPE improves fire performance mainly through the use of flame-retardant additives. Common systems include antimony-based, phosphorus-based, or combined formulations. When exposed to fire, FRPE can form a protective barrier that slows flame spread and supports self-extinguishing behavior.
Depending on the specific formulation, some FRPE grades may contain small amounts of halogen components. However, the core design goal is to balance flame resistance with mechanical strength, ensuring long-term reliability for industrial cables and structural parts under demanding operating conditions.
From a positioning perspective, LSZH places stronger emphasis on human safety and environmental protection, while FRPE focuses more on overall performance and engineering adaptability.
In real-world applications, flame-retardant LSZH and FRPE each offer distinct advantages.
The table below highlights the main differences between the two materials across key technical parameters.
| Properties | Fire-Resistant LSZH | FRPE(Flame-Retardant Polyethylene) |
| Halogen content | Halogen-free and non-toxic | May contain halogen additives |
| Smoke density | Extremely low smoke emissions | Small amount of smoke emission |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic and non-corrosive, safe for human use | Varies depending on formulation (some formulations may release acidic gases) |
| Flame retardant properties | Complies with CPR and IEC 60332 standards | Complies with UL94 and IEC 60754 standards |
| Main applications | Suitable for public transportation and buildings | Power cables, industrial cables |
| Environmental impact | Environmentally friendly and recyclable | Depends on halogen content |
Main Application Areas of Flame-Retardant LSZH
Rail transit and tunnel systems: Effectively controls the spread of smoke and toxic gases during a fire, helping ensure safe evacuation conditions.
Data centers and communication systems: Reduces the risk of smoke-related corrosion to sensitive electronic equipment.
Medical facilities and public buildings: Meets strict fire safety standards and high requirements for occupant protection.
Typical Application Directions of FRPE
Power transmission and distribution cables: Supports high-strength and high-reliability operation.
Industrial electrical conduits and cable systems: Combines flame resistance with flexibility and long-term durability.
Aviation and military wiring systems: Designed to withstand high temperatures, heavy loads, and complex operating environments.
As a CNAS-certified manufacturer of modified polymer cable materials, Angreen New Materials has established a solid technical and production foundation in the LSZH and FRPE fields. Its strengths include:
R&D capability: A technical team drawn from leading domestic universities and research institutes, with strong expertise in continuous formulation optimization.
Environmental focus: Dedicated to the development of low-smoke, halogen-free, and high-efficiency flame-retardant systems.
Strict compliance: Products comply with CPR, UL94-V0, GB31247, and relevant EU regulatory requirements.
Production capacity assurance: An annual capacity of 20,000 tons, ensuring stable support for large-scale projects.
Through customized material design, Angreen New Materials is able to deliver targeted solutions tailored to different engineering scenarios.
In summary, flame-retardant LSZH, with its non-toxic behavior and excellent smoke suppression, is especially suitable for environments where human safety is the top priority. FRPE, by contrast, stands out in industrial and high-durability applications. Angreen New Materials offers high-performance solutions that balance safety and mechanical strength, making it a trusted supplier of modified polymer cable materials.
