Inorganic Flame Retardants: Research Progress And Application Breakthroughs in The Rubber Field

Inorganic Flame Retardants: Research Progress and Application Breakthroughs in the Rubber Field

Introduction: 

With the increasing global concern for material safety, the application of inorganic flame retardants in the rubber industry has gradually become a hot research topic. The compounding of inorganic flame retardants, such as aluminum hydroxide (ATH), magnesium hydroxide (MDH), red phosphorus flame retardant, and non-halogenated flame retardants, not only improves the thermal stability of rubber, but also significantly enhances its flame retardant properties. In this paper, we will discuss in depth the application of these inorganic flame retardants in rubber and how the surface modification technology can enhance their compatibility and dispersion, which will revolutionize the safety performance of rubber products.

Application of Inorganic Flame Retardants in Rubber:

Inorganic flame retardants are widely used in the rubber industry because of their non-toxic, non-smoky, non-volatile and cost-effective advantages. Aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide, as typical inorganic flame retardants, reduce the temperature by releasing water when the rubber burns and form a stable charcoal layer to isolate oxygen, thus effectively slowing down the spread of the flame. Red phosphorus flame retardants, on the other hand, have attracted much attention for their highly effective flame retardant effects, especially in high-temperature applications. In addition, the compounding technology of non-halogenated flame retardants, such as the combination of phosphorus-based and silicone-based flame retardants, not only improves the flame retardancy level of rubber, but also reduces the release of toxic gases.

Surface modification technology of inorganic flame retardants: 

In order to improve the compatibility and dispersion of inorganic flame retardants and rubber matrix, surface modification technology has become the focus of research. Through the modification of silane coupling agent, phosphate ester and titanate and other surfactants, the inorganic flame retardant's rubberophilicity has been significantly improved, so as to achieve a more uniform dispersion in the rubber matrix. This modification not only improves the flame retardant efficiency of the rubber, but also maintains the mechanical and processing properties of the rubber.

Strategies to improve the thermal stability of rubber: 

In addition to the selection of suitable inorganic flame retardants and surface modification technology, the strategy to improve the thermal stability of rubber also includes the optimization of formulation design and processing technology. The thermal stability of rubber can be further improved by adding appropriate amounts of plasticizers and antioxidants. At the same time, the use of high-shear mixing and extrusion processes ensures the uniform dispersion of flame retardants in the rubber, which helps to improve the flame retardant properties of the final product.

Environmental protection and health considerations: 

In the pursuit of rubber flame retardant performance at the same time, environmental protection and health and safety issues should not be ignored. Inorganic flame retardants have lower environmental and health risks than organic flame retardants. Researchers are exploring more environmentally friendly flame retardants, such as those based on natural materials, as well as developing new halogen-free flame retardant systems to meet the market demand for sustainable development.

Conclusion:

The research progress of inorganic flame retardants in the field of rubber provides new solutions to improve the safety performance of rubber products. Through surface modification technology and optimized formulation design, inorganic flame retardants not only improve the thermal stability and flame retardant properties of rubber, but also help to achieve the production goals of environmental protection and health. With the continuous progress of technology and the growth of market demand, the application of inorganic flame retardants in the rubber industry will be more widely used to provide human society with safer and more reliable rubber products.