Flame Retardant Materials

About

Background Flame retardant (FR) additives are an important class of materials that have been used extensively to mitigate this serious deficiency of polymers. Halogenated materials account for about 30% (by weight) of all FR produced globally. Though these compounds are inexpensive and very effective in minimizing the rate of flame propagation, they are extremely toxic and environmentally persistent having significant long-term impact on the ecosystem. These additives liberate toxic products and generate toxic/corrosive gases during combustion. Halogenated FRs are recognized as a threat to both air and water ecosystems. UML Technology UMass Lowell researchers have used enzyme-mediated polymerizations as a new biotechnological methodology in the synthesis of new classes of FR materials with environmental compatibility, unsurpassed efficiency and economy in synthesis, stability and processing. SIloxane and its derivative-based FR: Polyorganosiloxane-based polymers made using enzymatic synthesis methods. Its derivatives contain mixed organic-inorganic backbones which further enhances thermal stability and heat-releasing capabilities. These polycarbosiloxanes exhibit excellent potential in fire retardant applications such as polymeric coatings, blends, wire insulation and composites. Polyphenol-based FR: Synthesized using environmentally friendly methods, these oligophenolic FRs ultra-fire resistant with very low heat release capacities (< 20 J/gK) and good char formation comparable to or better than most FR polymers. Unlike halogenated FR that are small molecules (monomers), these phenolic FRs are oligomeric materials that will not leach out of the matrix. As an additive these FRs will remain in the host polymer and prevent flame propagation. These FRs can also be synthesized using sustainably sourced raw materials (natural phenols that are waste byproducts of the food processing industry). This would provide a substantial reduction in the final cost of the oligophenol-based FR additive. Advantages Enzymatic synthesis Use of “Green” chemistry involves no use of harmful solvents  Ability to preserve physical properties over a wide range of temperature Low heat release capacity; non-toxic combustion products No Metal Oxides used Metal oxides used as flame retardant additives require heavy loading, which alters the properties of the material Halogen-Free materials Meets European standards, no toxic fumes released upon burning, no leaching of dangerous chemicals into the environment.