Clariant Takes Legal Action against Infringements of its Patents on Phosphinate Flame Retardants Technology by Chinese Companies

Muttenz, October 17, 2013 – Clariant, a world leader in specialty chemicals, has developed a flame retardants technology based on the substance class of phosphinates. In particular, the diethylphosphinic acid aluminium salt (DEPAL) has become a leading solution for halogen-free flame retarded engineering thermoplastics like polyamides and polyesters. This innovative technology marketed under the trademark Exolit® OP is widely covered by numerous patents and patent applications which cover rights on the phosphinate substances, formulations of phosphinates with co-flame retardants (synergists), production processes and the application in engineering thermoplastics like polyamides and polyesters. Patent law covers the production as well as the sale and commercial use of the protected products.

We offer a unique level of quality of our phosphinates, which by far is not met by products being offered so far by other companies. In line with its strict policy of protecting its intellectual property, Clariant takes legal action against infringements of its IP rights to the full extent of the patent protection. In this respect, Clariant has already successfully initiated legal steps in China.

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