Borealis launches halogen-free flame-retardant sheathing compound for cables
Last update on Apr 6, 2026
Borealis announces the commercial launch of FR6012, a new halogen-free flame-retardant monolayer sheathing compound for medium- to extra-high-voltage cables. The material meets ST12 fire-performance standards and offers an industry-leading balance of flame retardancy and mechanical strength, supporting energy customers to meet increasingly strict regulatory requirements in a wide range of safety-critical settings.
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Meets stringent ST12 performance standards
Broad changes across the energy and infrastructure landscape are driving demand for advanced flame-retardant sheathing: the energy transition requires a significant expansion of power networks, and continued urbanization is prompting upgrades to tunnels, transit routes, and other critical facilities. As a result, more high-voltage cables are being placed above ground and indoors, often in enclosed or high-occupancy areas. In these environments, fire presents a serious danger to both people and infrastructure, so operators need materials that can be relied on to limit fire propagation, smoke, and corrosive gas emissions.
Developed by Borealis in close collaboration with NKT Portugal (previously Solidal) and other technology partners, FR6012 addresses these demands directly, strengthening fire safety in settings where the risks are most acute. NKT is a supplier of power cables and cable accessories, and their expertise helped ensure that the compound meets production and performance needs.
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It enables cable designs that meet stringent ST12 performance standards, including up to the Construction Products Regulation’s Euroclass B2ca s1a, d0, a1 classification. It signifies very limited contribution to fire, very low smoke, no flaming droplets, and very low acidity and corrosivity of decomposition gases.
The compound is also aligned with the latest ST12 references in key International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards - IEC 60502-2 and Amendment 1, IEC 60840 and IEC 62067, which define the safety and performance requirements from 6 to 500 kV power cables. This alignment helps operators stay ahead of changing regulatory expectations and lowers the risk of future retrofits as standards continue to evolve.
Some of the main transmission system operators and private utilities across Europe have already approved FR6012 for use in 45 kV, 90 kV, 132 kV and 220 kV cable systems, demonstrating that the material is ready for use across networks.
Cost-efficient solution with excellent processability
In addition to its exceptional safety and compliance performance, FR6012 also supports cost efficiency for both cable producers and asset owners. For cable producers, its excellent processability on standard jacketing lines helps reduce production‑related asset risks. For asset owners, its superior mechanical strength lowers asset risk and maintenance needs over the cable’s lifetime. Together, these advantages contribute to a lower total cost of ownership, even in complex applications.
The introduction of FR6012 highlights Borealis’ long-standing commitment to the energy sector and its role in bringing energy all around. By providing innovative material solutions that strengthen safety and reliability, Borealis is supporting customers as they deliver the network expansion essential for electrification and decarbonization.
“Fire safety is becoming a defining performance requirement for the next generation of power networks. With FR6012, we are giving our customers a material solution they can rely on as they expand and modernize critical infrastructure. This launch is another step in how we are building for the future, delivering safer, more resilient, and more electrified energy systems,” said Bart Verheule, vice president Marketing, Borealis Energy.
Visitors to wire 2026 in Düsseldorf can learn more about FR6012 at the Borealis and Borouge stand (Hall 10, D72), where a cable sample from NKT will be on display and the FR6012 material will be available.
Image credits: Borealis