29 May The new automotive industrialization policy in Brazil and the importance of Fire Safety
The MOVER Program – Brazil’s new commitment to sustainability
The Brazilian Federal Executive Power has submitted to the National Congress a bill that creates the Green Mobility and Innovation Program (MOVER). The program offers tax incentives for automakers committed to developing low-carbon technologies, such as hybrid and electric vehicles (EVs). In exchange, these companies will be required to invest in research and innovation within the sector. Additionally, MOVER provides advantages for Brazilian auto parts companies. The program, currently in effect through Provisional Measure 1205/2024, will expire on May 31st if the bill is not approved by the Chamber of Deputies and the Federal Senate. One of MOVER’s main announcements is the inclusion of all types of vehicles capable of reducing environmental damage, including not only cars but also buses, trucks, components, and even lightweight vehicles such as bicycles and motorcycles. This expanded approach reflects a renewed commitment to sustainability and innovation across all spheres of mobility, promoting a more comprehensive transition to a cleaner and more efficient transportation system.
The current Brazilian political scenario favors the promotion of sustainable development. By launching the MOVER Program, the government aims to strengthen the country’s economy through the ecological transition of different. In this respect, flame retardants could play a pivotal role in supporting this transition. However, as we move towards a future dominated by electric and hybrid vehicles, ensuring fire safety becomes fundamental. This is where brominated flame retardants (BFRs) play a crucial role.
Fire Safety in the Age of E-Mobility
As e-mobility becomes more prevalent, with projections indicating over 50 million electric vehicles and 300 million electric two- and three-wheelers by 2025, the risk of fire hazards associated with these technologies also rises[1]. The increasing complexity and high energy demand of these vehicles necessitate rigorous fire safety standards to protect both lives and property.
Modern cars and e-vehicles require higher fire safety levels, because an increased fire hazard arises from the multitude of electrical devices now present in cars and from the electric motor, which can reach voltages of 400 to 600 V, versus 12 or 48 V for vehicles still used today[2].
The Importance of BFRs
BFRs are essential in mitigating these fire risks. They are used in various components of EVs to enhance fire safety. For instance, plastics used in the construction of battery enclosures, covers, cell holders, and high-voltage connections must meet stringent flame retardancy standards. BFRs help these materials resist ignition, preventing the spread of flames, thus providing more escape time.
The use of BFRs is not limited to vehicles alone but extends to the infrastructure supporting e-mobility, such as charging stations. These stations must also adhere to fire safety standards, which BFRs help achieve through their flame-retardant properties.
Recyclability of BFRs
BFR plastics can be effectively managed in conventional recycling processes. Interviews with WEEE plastic recyclers indicate that specialized companies can remove over 95% of BFRs from these plastics, showing their compatibility with circular economy practices[3]. When recycling is not possible, a range of eco-efficient waste management options are possible, such as incineration with energy recovery, precious metal smelting, as well as chemical recycling leading to the recovery of bromine which allows the re-entry of this valuable resource into the circular economy[4].
Integrating BFRs into MOVER’s Vision
In conclusion, as Brazil advances its commitment to sustainable development through initiatives like MOVER, the integration of BFRs into e-mobility technologies could play a vital role in achieving a safer and more sustainable e-mobility. By addressing fire safety concerns, ecological benefits of electric and hybrid vehicles won’t be overshadowed by potential risks, paving the way for a truly green transition in the automotive industry.
Footnotes:
[1] https://www.euractiv.com/section/railways/opinion/electrical-applications-in-iot-and-e-vehicles-a-fire-safety-challenge/
[2] Ibidem
[3] More information is available here: https://www.bsef.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Brominated-Flame-Retardants-and-the-Circular-Economy-of-WEEE-Plastics-online-final.pdf
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