The fabrication of phytate and LDH-based hybrid nanosheet towards improved fire safety properties and superior smoke suppression of intumescent flame retardant LDPE

Abstract

An effective fire retardant system was developed composed by traditional intumescent flame retardant (IFR) and a new-typed nano-synergist (PAMA-SDBS-LDH, P@L), and their synergistic effect and mechanism on the thermal stability and flammability properties of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) was comprehensively studied. Briefly, the nano-synergist was successfully prepared by using melamine, phytic acid and Zn-Ni-Al layered double hydroxide (LDH) according to hydrothermal method. By adding 0.5% PAMA-SDBS-LDH and 29.5% IFR, the fire retardant properties of LDPE composite (LDPE/I/P@L) reached V-0 rating in UL-94 test. The total smoke production of LDPE/I/P@L decreased by 69.8% compared with LDPE. It is confirmed that PAMA-SDBS-LDH nanosheet is an efficient synergist to promote the formation of high-quality char layer via multiple fire retarding mechanisms. The good mechanical properties of LDPE/IFR system are also maintained by incorporating PAMA-SDBS-LDH. Undoubtedly, this study will provide valuable insights into improving the fire retardant efficiency and practical application of traditional IFR.