Abstract
This article presents flame retardant compounds for silicone rubber (SR) in the form of polyhedral oligomeric silsequioxanes (POSS), containing both isobutyl groups and amino-propyl (AM-POSS) or chloro-propyl group (HA-POSS) or vinyl groups (OL-POSS). Silsequioxanes were incorporated into the silicone rubber matrix in a quantity of 3 and 6 parts by wt by the method of reactive stirring with the use of a laboratory mixing mill. Based on the analyses performed by TG (Thermogravimetry) FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy), conical calorimeter, and SEM-EDX (Scanning Electron Microscopy and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy) methods, the thermal degradation mechanism of non-cross-linked and cross-linked silicone rubber has been elucidated. The effects of POSS, and POSS in a synergic system with melamine polyphosphate (MPP), on the thermal properties and flammability of silicone rubber composites were presented. Based on the test results obtained, a mechanism of flame retardant action POSS and POSS-MPP has been proposed. It has been shown that POSS, especially with MPP, considerably increases the thermal stability and decreases the flammability of the SR rubber composites under investigation.
Highlights
Silicone rubbers (SR) are characterized by excellent compatibility, and chemical, thermal, and UV resistances, and showing very good dielectric properties
A commonly used method of improving the resistance of polymeric materials, including silicone rubbers, against the action of fire consists of incorporating additive flame-resistant compounds into their matrix
On account of environmental restrictions concerning the use of halogen flame retardants, at present halogen-free organophosphorus flame-retardant compounds, such as melamine polyphosphate (MPP) or ammonium polyphosphate (APP), have the greatest application potential [3]
Summary
Silicone rubbers (SR) are characterized by excellent compatibility, and chemical, thermal, and UV resistances, and showing very good dielectric properties. The flammability of silicone rubbers considerably reduces their use in the medical, automotive, power, and cable industries [1,2]. A commonly used method of improving the resistance of polymeric materials, including silicone rubbers, against the action of fire consists of incorporating additive flame-resistant compounds into their matrix. The action of organophosphorus compounds consists in forming an expanded, intumescent carbon layer on the polymer surface during its thermal decomposition. This layer acts as a barrier preventing heat transfer from its source to the polymer surface and reducing the fuel transfer to the flame [4]
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