Ultramid^® A3XZC3 ESD: High-performance plastic for rugged self-contained breathing apparatus

• The backplate of the MSA self-contained breathing apparatus M1 is made from Ultramid^® A3XZC3 ESD: flame-retardant, highly load-bearing, and with reduced surface resistance.
• Ultramid^® A3XZC3 ESD is highly impact-modified, carbon-fiber reinforced, and designed for applications requiring specific electrical properties.
• Self-contained breathing apparatus from MSA are also used by BASF's plant fire brigade.

The MSA M1 self-contained breathing apparatus uses a carrier plate made of Ultramid^® A3XZC3 ESD, which combines flame retardancy, high mechanical strength, and defined electrical properties. The highly impact-modified, carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic proves itself not only in demanding technical applications but also in daily use – for example with BASF’s plant fire brigade.

Ultramid^® A3XZC3 ESD combines three properties that are crucial for firefighting applications: reliable flame retardancy, high mechanical stability, and reduced surface resistivity. The flame retardancy (V-0 from 1.5 mm) ensures that the function of the self-contained breathing apparatus is maintained even under thermal stress; the fully assembled device passed a flame test by an independent testing institute, with full operational functionality retained after direct flaming.

“With Ultramid® A3XZC3 ESD we have developed a product with excellent flame retardancy, very good electrostatic properties, and high mechanical stability. At BASF Performance Materials we are particularly pleased that BASF’s plant fire brigade now also relies on this high-performance material, thereby trusting MSA self-contained breathing apparatus to deliver the highest safety and reliability,” says Frank Ehret, Technical Service Engineering Plastics at BASF.

The backplate of the breathing apparatus made from Ultramid^® A3XZC3 ESD features two large openings and a carrying frame that can be used to drag injured or unconscious responders. The handle is designed for emergency loads up to 200 kg and thus meets practical operational requirements. In explosion-hazard areas (EX zones) such as industrial or biogas plants, the reduced surface resistivity lowers electrostatic charging and thereby prevents spark formation.

The Ultramid^® used is a highly impact-modified injection-molding material, carbon-fiber reinforced, and with reduced surface resistivity. The red-phosphorus-based flame retardant is intended for applications that demand increased impact toughness and specific electrical properties.

MSA is a global provider of respiratory protection and safety technology. A specific component concept was developed for the M1 breathing system to address the requirements of firefighting operations.
 

About BASF  

At BASF, we create chemistry for a sustainable future. Our ambition: We want to be the preferred chemical company to enable our customers’ green transformation. We combine economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. Around 108,000 employees in the BASF Group contribute to the success of our customers in nearly all sectors and almost every country in the world. Our portfolio comprises, as core businesses, the segments Chemicals, Materials, Industrial Solutions, and Nutrition & Care; our standalone businesses are bundled in the segments Surface Technologies and Agricultural Solutions. BASF generated sales of around €60 billion in 2025. BASF shares are traded on the stock exchange in Frankfurt (BAS) and as American Depositary Receipts (BASFY) in the United States. Further information at www.basf.com. 

About BASF’s Performance Materials division 

BASF’s Performance Materials division drives the transformation of the plastics industry by uniting sustainability with high performance. Our materials expertise, deep industry know-how, and broad product portfolio make us the preferred partner for comprehensive solutions across the plastics lifecycle. With dedicated material-focused teams, strong R&D power, and a global production network close to our customers, we deliver tailored offerings that meet regional and industry-specific needs. Our products enhance performance and efficiency in key sectors such as automotive, construction, consumer goods, and industrial applications. Together with our partners, we embark on #OurPlasticsJourney towards a more circular and sustainable future. In 2025, the Performance Materials division achieved global sales of €6.4 billion.  

Join #OurPlasticsJourney on LinkedIn  https://on.basf.com/PM_LinkedIn  

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Further information at https://www.performance-materials.basf.com. 

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