Fire-resistant hydrophobic nanocoated composite partition sheets

Abstract

Composite partition sheets were prepared by vacuum infusion process using noncombustible glass fiber and waste nylon along with polyester matrix. The waste nylon materials obtained in the form of discarded fishing nets were reinforced in sheets with T90° orientation. They were then coated using two types of fumed silica nanopowders mixed in polyester resin. Two types of coated and corresponding bare hybrid composite samples were examined for their various properties. Appreciable values for mechanical properties were obtained for all the hybrid sheets which are more pronounced for the nanocoated sheets. Furthermore, horizontal flammability tests proved that the fumed silica-coated sheets have better flame-retardant characteristics. With constant heat flux of 50 W/m2, the specimens were investigated for the peak heat release rate (HRR) and fire reaction properties like total oxygen consumed, average specific mass loss rate, total smoke release, and average HRR which gave good results for the nanocoated sheets. Moreover, water-absorbing properties of the hybrid sheets were generally less and it was better in the case of hydrophobic fumed silica-coated samples. These low cost and less weight composite sheets were successfully developed and the results obtained were encouraging, which can be used as partition sheets in the construction of affordable buildings.