Coexist Flame Retardant Materials

Flame-retardant composite materials revolutionize materials science. Crafted by blending multiple flame retardants in a set ratio, they optimize overall performance, enhancing flame retardancy, mechanical properties, processing characteristics, and environmental compatibility. Here are common systems and their applications:

1. ATH and MDH Combination

Aluminum Hydroxide (ATH) and Magnesium Hydroxide (MDH) are inorganic flame retardants. Upon heating, they decompose, releasing water that absorbs heat and cools surrounding materials. MDH has higher thermal stability, ideal for high-temperature processing.

They're used in low-smoke, halogen-free materials like wires, cables, and building materials.

2. Phosphorus and Nitrogen-based Flame Retardants

Phosphorus-based retardants (e.g., red phosphorus, organic phosphates) form a char layer during combustion, blocking fire spread. Nitrogen-based ones (e.g., melamine derivatives) release ammonia gas to dilute combustible gases.

Their combination shows strong synergy, improving flame-retardant efficiency, and is popular in thermoplastic resins, epoxy resins, and polyurethane foams.

3. Halogen and Synergist Blend

Halogen flame retardants (bromine and chlorine-based) generate inert gases to block oxygen. Synergists like antimony trioxide enhance their effectiveness.

This combination is widely used in plastics, rubbers, and polymer materials needing high fire resistance.

4. Inorganic and Organic Blend

Inorganic retardants (e.g., ATH, MDH) use physical mechanisms like heat absorption and gas dilution. Organic ones (phosphorus-nitrogen-based) form a charred layer chemically.

Combined, they have both physical and chemical flame-retardant traits, suitable for high-performance engineering plastics.

5. Nanomaterials in Flame-retardant Systems

Adding nanomaterials like nano-silica and nano-montmorillonite optimizes the char layer structure during combustion, improving flame-retardant efficiency.

They're applied in aerospace materials and electronic device casings, requiring high fire resistance and lightweight design.

6. Advantages of Composite Systems

• Higher Flame-retardancy: Synergy enables higher flame-retardant grades, withstanding intense heat and flames.

• Reduced Additives: Using a combination cuts individual additive amounts, lowering costs and minimizing impact on mechanical properties.

• Better Processing: Adjustable formulas ensure good performance under various conditions, increasing versatility.

• Eco-friendliness: Low-toxic and low-smoke systems are favored, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional high-toxic ones.