Preparation of durable and flame retardant lyocell fabrics by using a biomass-based modifier derived from vitamin C

Abstract

Lyocell fibers, one of the green and regenerated cellulose fibers, are widely used in the textile fields. However, lyocell fibers are highly flammable which will cause fire accidents. Herein, a novel biomass-based flame retardant derived from vitamin C (VCFR) was designed and synthesized. Then, the lyocell fabrics were finished with VCFR through esterification to fabricate durable flame retardant lyocell fabrics (RF-lyocell). The structure of the different fabrics was characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared analysis analysis. The limiting oxygen index value of the FR-lyocell was as high as 39.8%, which still remained 26.4% after 30 washing cycles, indicating excellent flame retardancy and durability. Thermogravimetric-Fourier transform infrared analysis proved that non-combustion compounds, such as CO2 and water were generated, and provided an obvious flame retardant effect in the gas phase. Cone calorimeter tests showed that the peak of heat release rate and total heat release had a reduction of 89.5% and 54.5%, respectively. These results suggested that VCFR can be used as an effective biomass-based flame retardant for lyocell fabrics.