Low smoke zero halogen or low smoke free of halogen (LSZH or LSOH or LS0H or LSFH)

Low smoke zero halogen or low smoke free of halogen (LSZH or LSOH or LS0H or LSFH) is a material classification typically used for cable jacketing in the wire and cable industry. LSZH cable jacketing is composed of thermoplastic or thermoset compounds that emit limited smoke and no halogen when exposed to high sources of heat, e.g. flame.[1]

Most network cables are insulated with polyethylene, PVC or Thermoplastic Urethane (TPU) . In a fire, a halogen-containing plastic material releases, e.g. hydrogen chloride, a poisonous gas that forms hydrochloric acid when it comes in contact with water. Designated Halogen-free cables, on the other hand, do not produce a dangerous gas/acid combination or toxic smoke when exposed to flame.

Low smoke zero halogen cable reduces the amount of toxic and corrosive gas emitted during combustion. This type of material is typically used in poorly ventilated areas such as aircraft or rail cars. Low smoke zero halogen is becoming very popular and, in some cases, a requirement where the protection of people and equipment from toxic and corrosive gas is critical.

other benefits to halogen free cable are that it is ofen lower in weight, so overall cable network systems weights can be reduced. The environmental impact of halogen free cabling is also important as it is easier to dispose of, because there are fewer toxic chemicals to dispose of