BRANOflame: Safe theatrical snow made from flame-retardant paper for stage and film


Florian Wirth
Head of Sales & Authorized Signatory

 

In theater, film, and event productions, realistic effects are crucial for creating the right atmosphere in a scene. One such effect is artificial snow—a material that must look convincing while also meeting the highest safety standards. With BRANOflame flame-retardant paper, BRANOpac offers an innovative solution that meets precisely these requirements: a flame-retardant, environmentally friendly, and versatile special paper that is used, among other things, as theater snow.

 

Key Facts

  • BRANOflame flame-retardant paper is classified as M1 according to UNE 23-727-90 – a suitable material option for applications with corresponding fire protection requirements.
  • Suitable as theatrical snow – for example through cutting and die-cutting to simulate falling snow; the specific visual effect should be verified through an application test.
  • Material base of kraft paper – recyclable or suitable for material recovery, and with a calorific value of over 11,000 kJ/kg also suitable for energy recovery.
  • Versatile for use in stage, film, events, decoration, and packaging – use in safety-relevant areas should always be assessed based on local fire protection regulations and the relevant fire safety concept.

What is BRANOflame flame-retardant paper?

BRANOflame is a specially treated paper with flame-retardant properties. BRANOflame is based on kraft paper that is made flame-resistant through a special finishing process.

The flame-retardant paper is classified as M1 according to UNE 23-727-90 and is therefore relevant for applications that require flame-resistant materials, such as theatre sets and decorations. The specific requirements should always be checked on a project- and country-specific basis.

BRANOflame combines a comparatively low basis weight with technical paper properties that can be relevant for a wide range of processing and decoration applications. For BRANOflame CF9, specified values include a basis weight of 97 ± 7 g/m², a bursting strength of > 200 kPa, and a tensile strength of md > 5.3 kN/m and cd > 3.0 kN/m. The flame-resistant paper can be printed, painted, glued, folded, stapled, cut, and die-cut.

In addition, BRANOflame is suitable, due to its material properties, for creating visual effects on stage, such as simulating falling snow. The specific visual effect (e.g. light reflection) should be verified through an application test on a case-by-case basis.

From flame-retardant paper to theatrical snow – creative use with safety in mind

The use of BRANOflame as theatrical snow is an example of innovative material use in the events and culture industry. Many stage sets, film sets, and theme parks require artificial snow that looks natural and can be used safely.

Compared to plastic- or foam-based alternatives, BRANOflame offers a paper-based option with M1 classification.

The flame-retardant paper can be cut and die-cut, for example to create the impression of light snowfall as it drifts down. Use in safety-relevant areas should always be assessed based on local fire protection regulations, the specific application, and the relevant fire safety concept.

This makes it possible to achieve a visually convincing snow effect that supports the fulfillment of fire protection requirements – relevant for theatres, opera houses, film studios, and event productions.

The advantages of BRANOflame flame-retardant paper at a glance

  • Flame-resistant paper classified as M1 according to UNE 23-727-90 – a suitable material option for applications with corresponding fire protection requirements.
  • Specified technical properties for BRANOflame CF9, including bursting strength and tensile strength.
  • Versatile processing – can be printed, painted, glued, folded, stapled, cut, and die-cut.
  • Material base of kraft paper: recyclable or suitable for material recovery; can be disposed of via waste paper or residual waste, and with a calorific value of over 11,000 kJ/kg also suitable for energy recovery.
  • Made in Germany – quality and safety from controlled production.

These properties make BRANOflame a suitable option and a paper-based, recoverable material solution for professional applications in theatre, film, and event design.

Why BRANOflame flame-retardant paper is well suited for stage, film, and event production

Stage and film productions place particularly high demands on the materials used. Safety is a top priority, which is why use in safety-relevant areas should always be assessed based on local fire protection regulations, the specific application, and the relevant fire safety concept.

BRANOflame offers a decisive advantage here: it meets relevant fire protection requirements without compromising on aesthetics or function.

It also stands out for its practical handling, versatility, and broad applicability, which extend well beyond its use as theatrical snow.

Further applications for BRANOflame flame-retardant paper

Besides its use as theatrical snow, BRANOflame is also suitable for numerous other applications where fire protection, appearance, and environmental friendliness are all required.

  • Stage and set construction for theatre, trade fairs, and events
  • Film and television productions, for example as a background or decorative element
  • Event design and exhibitions, particularly for installations with public access
  • Interior design applications where flame-resistant surfaces are required
  • Covers and packaging for fire-hazardous or easily combustible goods
  • Promotional materials and displays, where safety and sustainability should be combined

Thanks to its classification in Class M1 according to UNE 23-727-90 and its ease of processing, BRANOflame can therefore be a suitable material option for creative design with corresponding fire protection requirements.

Conclusion: BRANOflame – safe snow for impressive productions

With BRANOflame, BRANOpac offers a safe and creative solution for the use of flame-retardant paper as theatrical snow. The material combines fire protection, sustainability, and visual quality at a high level – a combination that is becoming increasingly important in professional stage and event technology.

Through its classification, ease of processing, and kraft paper material base, BRANOflame helps bring productions to life both visually and with regard to fire protection.

Whether as shimmering snowfall in the spotlight or as a flame-retardant decorative element – BRANOflame stands for safety, quality, and responsibility in modern event technology.

Florian Wirth

Contact us for more information on BRANOflame and tailored application options.

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Frequently asked questions about BRANOflame flame-retardant paper

BRANOflame is a specially treated paper based on kraft paper that is flame-resistant. It is classified as M1 according to UNE 23-727-90 and is used as a material option for applications in theatre, film, and event production that have corresponding fire protection requirements.

The material has a comparatively low basis weight and specified tensile strength values. Cutting and die-cutting can, for example, be used to create the impression of light snowfall; the specific visual effect should be verified through an application test. At the same time, it is flame-resistant (Class M1 according to UNE 23-727-90) – however, use in safety-relevant areas should always be assessed based on local fire protection regulations and the relevant fire safety concept.

BRANOflame is made from kraft paper and is recyclable or suitable for material recovery. It can be disposed of via waste paper or residual waste; with a calorific value of over 11,000 kJ/kg, the material is also suitable for energy recovery. This makes it a paper-based, recoverable alternative to plastic- or foam-based artificial snow products.

In addition to its use as theatrical snow, BRANOflame is suitable for stage and set construction, film and television productions, event design and exhibitions, interior design applications, covers and packaging for fire-hazardous or easily combustible goods, as well as promotional materials and displays.

BRANOflame combines a classification as a flame-resistant material (M1 according to UNE 23-727-90), specified technical properties, versatile processing options (including printing, painting, gluing, folding, stapling, cutting, and die-cutting), and a recyclable material base of kraft paper – properties that make it a suitable option for professional applications.

About the author

Florian Wirth
Florian Wirth
Head of Sales & Authorized Signatory
Florian Wirth is Head of Sales and an authorized signatory at BRANOpac GmbH. He has many years of experience supporting national and international customers from industry, trade and packaging. His focus is on developing and marketing sustainable packaging and protective solutions such as BRANOflame that combine safety, quality and environmental responsibility.

*The content on this page was partially generated with AI support and editorially reviewed.