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Synergistic effect and ratio optimization of flame retardants and synergists in Fireproof masterbatch formulation

Publish Time: 2024-11-19
In the formulation design of Fireproof masterbatch, the synergistic effect of flame retardants and synergists plays a key role in improving fireproof performance, and the optimization of their ratio is the core point to achieve efficient fireproofing while taking into account other performance.

Flame retardants are the main functional components of Fireproof masterbatch. Common ones include halogen flame retardants, phosphorus flame retardants, nitrogen flame retardants, etc. They inhibit or delay the combustion process of materials through different flame retardant mechanisms. For example, halogen flame retardants will decompose and produce hydrogen halide gas when heated. This gas can dilute the concentration of combustible gases in the combustion area and form a barrier layer on the surface of the material to prevent the transfer of heat and oxygen. However, a single flame retardant often has some limitations. For example, excessive addition of certain flame retardants may seriously affect the mechanical properties of the material, or produce more harmful smoke during combustion.

The addition of synergists can make up for the shortcomings of flame retardants and enhance their flame retardant effects. Take metal oxide synergists (such as antimony trioxide) as an example. When used together with halogen flame retardants, they react with hydrogen halides to generate more stable and better covering antimony halides, further strengthening the flame retardant effect of the barrier layer. At the same time, some nitrogen-containing synergists can promote the formation of an expanded carbon layer during the combustion process. The carbon layer not only has a good heat insulation effect, but also prevents the escape of combustible gases, and cooperates with flame retardants to reduce the flammability of materials.

In terms of ratio optimization, multiple factors need to be considered comprehensively. First, the basic flame retardant grade requirements should be determined based on the type of target material and the usage scenario. For example, for plastic products used in public places, higher fire protection standards may need to be met. Then, a large number of experiments are conducted to test the fire resistance of different flame retardant and synergist ratios, such as limiting oxygen index test, vertical combustion test, etc. At the same time, other indicators such as mechanical properties and processing properties of the material should also be paid attention to. If too much flame retardant and synergist are added, the material may become brittle and difficult to process. Generally speaking, a ratio range can be set based on theoretical calculations and experience in the early stage, and then through gradual fine-tuning and performance evaluation, it is finally determined that the ratio that can make the comprehensive performance of the material reach the best under the premise of meeting the fire protection requirements. For example, in a specific polypropylene Fireproof masterbatch formula, after many tests, it was found that when the mass ratio of a certain halogen flame retardant to antimony trioxide is about 3:1, the polypropylene material can not only reach the V-0 fire protection standard, but also maintain good tensile strength and impact toughness, meeting its application requirements in the production of electrical housings. Through continuous in-depth research on the synergistic mechanism of flame retardants and synergists and the ratio optimization method, the continuous development of Fireproof masterbatch technology can be promoted, and more effective solutions can be provided to ensure the fire safety of materials.
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