[2] Aluminium diethyl phosphinate acts as a flame retardant in the condensed phase in contributing to charring of the polymer matrix and thus protecting the substrate against heat and oxygen attack.

[4] Aluminium diethyl phosphinate is used as a halogen-free flame retardant for polyamides, polyesters, thermoset resins (e.g. epoxies) in electrical engineering and electronics (E&E) applications for switches, plugs, PC fans, and structural and housing components.

In glass fibre reinforced (GF) polyamide 6 (Nylon 6) and 66 (Nylon 66) formulations as well as in polyesters like polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) and PET, aluminium diethyl phosphinate shows excellent performance[5] in the UL 94 flammability tests [6] (UL 94 V0 specification is met down to 0.4 mm), as well as in the glow wire tests required for appliances.

In particular, in the so-called surface mount technology (SMT) used to connect semiconductor components mechanically and electrically to circuit boards, the resins have to withstand peak temperatures of 260 °C and more during the soldering process.

[16] With the exception of being persistent and thus not readily biodegradable, aluminium diethyl phosphinate has been shown to have a favourable environmental and health profile.