Effect of three flame retardants on the performance of PE wood plastic composites flooring.

Abstract

To improve application of wood-plastic composites （WPC）, a new type of environmental material, and to promote safety, the effects of three kinds of flame retardants （A, B, and C） on mechanical properties and combustion performance of PE wood plastic composite flooring were compared to unprocessed wood plastic composite flooring and analyzed. Results showed that after adding flame retardants, the 24 h water absorption rate, the bending failure load, and the smoke density of WPC flooring met the GB/T 24508-2009 and GB 8624-2006 standards. Compared to unprocessed WPC flooring, the oxygen index increased from 25.2% to 34.4%, the 24 h water absorption rate increased from 47.0% to 152.0%, and the bending failure load decreased from 10.5% to 27.4%. Retardant C had the maximum oxygen index and bending failure load for treated WPC flooring; retardant B had the minimum 24 h water absorption rate and smoke density. Overall, flame retardants improved the flame retardation properties of WPC flooring but negatively influenced mechanical properties; meanwhile, smoke from fire with WPC flooring was the main cause of casualties, so this toxic smoke requires further study. ［Ch, 4 fig. 1 tab. 19 ref.］