Inspired by a naturally occurring material found in marine mussels, researchers at UT Austin have created a new flame retardant to replace commercial additives that are often toxic and can accumulate over time in the environment and living animals, including humans.

Flame retardants are added to foams in mattresses, sofas, car upholstery and many other consumer products. These chemicals can migrate out of the products over time, releasing toxic substances into the environment.

A team led by Associate Professor Christopher Ellison found that a synthetic coating of polydopamine—derived from the natural compound dopamine—can be used as a highly effective, water-applied flame retardant for polyurethane foam.

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