VIENNA, March 27, 2026 — A new low-smoke zero-halogen (LSZH) flame-retardant monolayer sheathing compound has been commercially launched, specifically designed to meet the strict safety requirements of medium- to extra-high-voltage power cables. This innovative material delivers an optimal balance of fire safety, mechanical strength and cost efficiency, addressing the growing demand for safe, compliant cable solutions in safety-critical environments worldwide.
As the global energy transition accelerates and urbanization drives upgrades to critical infrastructure, more medium and high-voltage cables are being installed in enclosed, high-occupancy areas such as tunnels, substations, data centers, public buildings and transportation hubs. In these settings, fire poses significant risks to human life and infrastructure, making flame-retardant, low-toxicity sheathing materials a non-negotiable requirement for operators and regulators alike.
Developed in close collaboration with industry technology partners, the new compound—designated as FR 6012—meets the most stringent safety standards, including the ST12 fire-performance specification and the Construction Products Regulation’s (CPR) Euroclass B2ca s1a, d0, a1 classification. This classification signifies very limited contribution to fire, very low smoke emission, no flaming droplets, and extremely low acidity and corrosivity of decomposition gases—critical features for protecting people and sensitive equipment in fire scenarios.
“Fire safety is becoming a core performance requirement for the next generation of power networks,” said a senior industry analyst specializing in energy materials. “This new compound was developed to address the industry’s dual challenge: delivering uncompromising fire protection while maintaining mechanical durability and cost-effectiveness. By working closely with technology partners, we’ve created a solution that not only meets today’s strict regulatory demands but also supports the goal of building safer, more resilient energy infrastructure.”
Key technical characteristics of the new compound include high mechanical strength and toughness, excellent UV resistance, and superior flame retardancy. The black thermoplastic compound features a unique polyethylene (PE) base resin combined with an advanced flame-retardant filler, enabling it to withstand harsh environmental conditions while ensuring reliable performance over the cable’s lifecycle. It meets the latest ST12 references in key International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards—including IEC 60502-2, IEC 60840 and IEC 62067—covering safety and performance requirements for 6 to 500 kV power cables, helping operators stay ahead of evolving regulatory expectations.
In addition to its exceptional safety performance, the new compound offers significant cost efficiencies for both cable producers and asset owners. Its compatibility with standard jacketing production lines eliminates the need for specialized equipment, reducing production costs and minimizing downtime. For asset owners, the material’s durability and compliance with global standards lower the risk of future retrofits and maintenance, while its LSZH properties align with global sustainability trends toward non-toxic, environmentally friendly materials.
The new compound is already gaining industry recognition, with several major transmission system operators and private utilities across Europe approving its use in 45 kV, 90 kV, 132 kV and 220 kV cable systems—demonstrating its readiness for immediate deployment in existing and new power networks. It is ideal for a wide range of applications, including emergency circuits, underground installations, data centers and transportation infrastructure, where fire resistance and low toxicity are paramount.
The launch of this new flame-retardant LSZH compound aligns with the global focus on supporting the energy transition and advancing sustainable infrastructure. As the demand for LSZH compounds continues to grow—with the global LSZH compounds market projected to reach US$ 2,587 million by 2032 at a CAGR of 5.9%—this innovation is well-positioned to lead progress in fire-safe cable materials. The focus on collaboration and customer-centric design ensures that the compound addresses real-world industry challenges, from regulatory compliance to cost control.
“This new flame-retardant compound responds to a key challenge put to us by many high-voltage cable users,” said a representative from a leading European power infrastructure firm. “It positions us to enter new markets that require compliance with ST12 performance standards, while enhancing the safety and reliability of our existing cable networks.”
For more information about the new FR 6012 compound and its applications in medium/high-voltage cables, visit the industry’s official information portal.