Metal–Organic Frameworks as Promising Textile Flame Retardants: Importance and Application Methods

Abstract

We present a review of current research on promising flame retardants using specific methods of applying metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) to the highly flammable fibrous surface of cotton fabric. In this review, we initially address the reasons why the search for new flame retardants has becomes critically important in textile finishing, the area responsible for adhering new functionalities to substrates. This addition of characteristics is closely linked to the nature of the fibers, so the reason for the improvement in cotton fabric in relation to flame retardancy is discussed. Furthermore, the development of highly porous nanomaterials that can generate composites with specific functions is described, as well as their application and methods of integration into textile surfaces. Finally, the main candidates for flame retardant functionality in cellulosic materials are identified. It is also hoped that this work will facilitate researchers to develop and formulate new methods of applying nanomaterials to textile substrates, with a view to becoming a reference for new research into the development of adhesion of emerging materials to traditional materials.