IT, white goods and consumer electronics enclosures. UL94 V-0 flame-retarded ABS, PC/ABS and PC for high-end.
Flame-retarded ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene) and PC/ABS blends dominate consumer electronics housings. They combine UL94 V-0 flame retardance, dimensional stability for thin-walled mouldings, and the surface finish needed for visible product surfaces. Premium displays and laptops sometimes use polycarbonate (PC) for higher impact resistance and slimmer wall thicknesses.
Yellowing is caused by UV exposure and thermal ageing of brominated flame retardants used in older ABS and HIPS housings. The bromine compounds slowly oxidise and form chromophores. Modern halogen-free flame-retardant systems (phosphorus-based, intumescent) are more colour-stable. RoHS-compliant electronics from the past 5–10 years yellow significantly less than 1990s and 2000s equivalents.
Technically yes, and the EU WEEE directive obligates producers to fund collection and recycling. In practice, large-appliance plastic recovery is hampered by mixed-material assemblies and brominated flame retardants in older units. Newer designs avoid problematic flame retardants and use single-material housings where possible to simplify end-of-life recycling. Some manufacturers (Bosch, Electrolux) use 25%+ recycled-content ABS in new products.
Flame-retardant plastic contains additives that slow ignition and reduce flame spread under fire conditions — the standard reference is the UL94 test (ratings HB, V-2, V-1, V-0, with V-0 being best). Mains-powered electronic housings, IT equipment, and white goods all require V-0 rating to limit fire risk from internal electrical faults. Halogen-free FR systems are now preferred over older brominated flame retardants for environmental and health reasons.