Product
UL 746 covers a wide range of material properties, including mechanical, electrical, thermal, flammability and other safety-related characteristics. The series is divided into several parts, each focusing on specific aspects of material evaluation: UL746A, UL746B, UL 746C, UL 746D, UL 746E, UL 746F, UL 746G, UL 746H UL 746R and UL 746S.
UL 746A, the Standard for Polymeric Materials - Short Term Property Evaluations, provides a framework for assessing the mechanical, electrical, physical, chemical resistance and flammability properties of materials over short durations.
At UL Solutions, we offer a comprehensive suite of mechanical testing methods designed to deliver reliable, actionable data applicable across a wide range of products and use cases. Our testing capabilities include evaluating key material properties, such as:
Using advanced temperature test chambers, we simulate accelerated aging to uncover the long-term effects of heat exposure. This process helps identify irreversible changes in the composition, surface characteristics and structural integrity of plastics and components.
UL Solutions conducts two primary preselection test programs to evaluate the flammability characteristics of plastic materials:
UL 746B, the Standard for Polymeric Materials - Long Term Property Evaluations, focuses on how materials age and degrade over time, especially when exposed to prolonged thermal stress.
At UL Solutions, we use advanced temperature test chambers to simulate accelerated aging, allowing us to observe the long-term effects of heat exposure. This process helps identify irreversible changes in the composition, surface characteristics and structural integrity of plastics and components — providing valuable insights into material durability and performance over time.
UL 746C, the Standard for Polymeric Materials - Use in Electrical Equipment Evaluations, evaluates polymeric materials intended for use in electrical equipment, focusing on environmental performance and durability. This includes assessments for environmental ratings such as F1 and F2, which indicate resistance to UV exposure and water immersion.
UL 746E, the Standard for Polymeric Materials - Industrial Laminates, Filament Wound Tubing, Vulcanized Fibre, and Materials Used In Printed-Wiring Boards, covers standards for laminates, filament wound tubing, vulcanized fibre and materials used in printed wiring boards. It measures the ignition resistance of the conformal coating to electrical ignition sources.
UL 746F, the Standard for Polymeric Materials - Flexible Dielectric Film Materials for Use in Printed-Wiring Boards and Flexible Materials Interconnect Constructions, applies to flexible materials such as polyimide used for insulation and conductivity in flexible circuits.
UL 746G, Outline of Investigation for Non-Fluorine and Non-PFAS Containing Materials, addresses the ongoing market demand for non-PFAS materials. It also defines the methodology for evaluating PFAS in virgin and recycled materials with a clear path of sample and test requirements based on the material type:
UL 746R, Outline of Investigation for Restricted Use Substances in Polymeric Materials, investigates the presence of restricted substances in polymeric materials, helping manufacturers evaluate compliance with global environmental and safety regulations, such as the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) Directive for the EU.
Our RoHS rating program includes ongoing inspections and testing throughout the life of the certification, confirming that certified products continue to meet RoHS requirements, including updates to substance restrictions. To demonstrate compliance with the latest regulations, the UL Solutions Yellow Card™ indicates materials that meet RoHS 2011/65/EU and 2015/863 standards.
UL 746H, Outline of Investigation for Non-Halogenated Materials, covers the certification program for plastics (QMFZ2) that are non-halogenated and free from chlorine and bromine. It includes tests and certifies materials that meet these requirements.
This Outline of Investigation evaluates materials to two different rating schemes:
Certification provides easy and independent way for specifiers and other purchasers to search and find plastics.
UL 746S, the Standard for Evaluation of Sustainable Polymeric Materials for Use in Electrical Equipment, addresses the safety and performance of recycled plastics blended with virgin materials for use in electrical applications. Published on Aug. 30, 2023, this Standard reflects the industry's growing focus on sustainability.
UL Solutions tests mechanically recycled plastic compounds containing post-consumer or post-industrial content in accordance with UL 746S through our Component Certification program . Requirements for mechanically recycled plastic compounds have now been fully transitioned from UL 746D to UL 746S, aligning with evolving environmental goals and regulatory expectations. This shift supports manufacturers in developing safer, more sustainable products without compromising performance.
Material ratings show that a plastic has been tested and meets specific performance requirements — such as physical and flammability performance — under globally recognized standards and test methods.
Plastic materials with these ratings are listed in our UL Product iQ™ and ULTRUS™ Prospector® databases. This makes it easy to search and verify materials, giving you confidence that they meet globally recognized standards, test methods and certification requirements.
At UL Solutions, our experts can help you navigate product standards, certification processes and compliance challenges. With a strong local presence backed by a global network, we deliver knowledgeable, efficient service in your target markets — supporting manufacturers in protecting public safety and maintaining brand integrity.
Download your e-guide to understand our Plastics Recognition Program.
Our RoHS Certification for Plastics (QMFZ2) program streamlines the entire process by efficiently bundling your RoHS rating with your submittal for plastics certification to UL Standards.
