Study of the flame retardant properties of short carbon fiber–reinforced epoxy composites

Abstract

Short carbon fiber–reinforced epoxy composites (SCFRPs) are attracting increasing attention because of their excellent mechanical properties and simple molding process. However, their mechanical, magnetic, and electrical performances have been the main concern, while their flame retardant performance has not been comprehensively studied. In this article, short carbon fiber–reinforced epoxy resin composites were prepared via the method of solution blending. The effects of carbon fiber on the flame retardancy and thermal stability of epoxy resin composites were studied by a UL-94 horizontal combustion test, a cone calorimetry test, and thermogravimetry analysis. The results showed that when the short carbon fiber was 0.7 wt%, the combustion level of the material increased from FH-1 to FH-2; the peak values of the heat release rate and total heat release were reduced by 31.6% and 11.36%, respectively. Thermogravimetry analysis showed that the temperature at the maximum decomposition rate was improved by 9°C, and the decomposition rate was decreased simultaneously. The mechanical properties of the composites were improved as well.