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Revealing the inner secrets of intumescent chars by advanced small scale tests combined with µ-CT
(2015)
Testing of intumescent coatings for Steel is usually done in intermediate scale or even full scale experiments and is hence quite expensive. We developed two complementary small scale tests, simulating fully developed Tire. First is a strongly modified electrical muffle furnace, which is now able to follow the Standard temperature-time curve (according EN 1363-1) for 90 min in a very accurate manner. Düring the experiment backside temperatures are recorded and the growth of the char is observed with a custom made high temperature endoscope. Second is a testing apparatus based on a propane-oxygen-bumer for direct severe flame impingement of coated samples, reaching temperatures far above 1500 °C.
Our small scale samples are coated Steel plates of a size of 75 x 75 x 2 mm3. The structure-propertyrelation between additives, thermal properties and morphology of the char were examined using a well determined series of samples consisting of basic composition mixed with different additives. With the burner-testing-apparatus we studied the behavior of a high performance coating, which shows a transformation of the carbonaceous char into a ceramic foam at temperatures as high as 1600 °C. Nondestructive micro-computed tomography was used to characterize the morphology of the char. According to the structure of the foams we used different analytic methods like cell-detection or wallthickness-analysis. Additional scanning electron and optical microscopy were performed. The combination of the CT-data with the measured backside temperatures of the different samples provides us a deep understanding of the interaction between isolating properties and morphology of intumescent chars.
Intumescent coatings have been used for fire protection of steel for decades, but there is still a need for improvement and adaptation. The key parameters of such coatings in a fire Scenario are thermal insulation, foaming dynamics, and cohesion. The fire resistance tests, large furnaces applying the standard time temperature (STT) curve, demand coated full‐scale components or intermediate‐scale specimen. The STT Mufu+ (standard time temperature muffle furnace+) approach is presented. It is a recently developed bench‐scale testing method to analyze the performance of intumescent coatings. The STT Mufu+ provides vertical testing of specimens with reduced specimen size according to the STT curve. During the experiment, the foaming process is observed with a high‐temperature endoscope. Characteristics of this technique like reproducibility and resolution are presented and discussed. The STT Mufu+ test is highly efficient in comparison to common tests because of the reduced sample size. Its potential is extended to a superior research tool by combining it with advanced residue analysis (μ‐computed tomography and scanning electron microscopy) and mechanical testing. The benefits of this combination are demonstrated by a case study on 4 intumescent coatings. The evaluation of all collected data is used to create performance‐based rankings of the tested coatings.
In addition to the acid source, charring agent, and blowing agent, the binder is a crucial part of an intumescent coating. Its primary task is to bind all compounds, but it also acts as a carbon source and influences the foaming process. A series of intumescent coatings based on five different binders was investigated in terms of insulation, foaming, mechanical impact resistance, and residue morphology. The Standard Time-Temperature modified Muffle Furnace (STT MuFu+ ) was used for the bench-scale fire resistance tests and provided data on temperature and residue thickness as well as well-defined residues. The residue morphology was analyzed by nondestructive m-computed tomography and scanning electron microscopy. A moderate influence of the binder on insulation performance was detected in the set of coatings investigated, whereas the foaming dynamics and thickness achieved were affected strongly. In addition, the inner structure of the residues showed a rich variety. High expansion alone did not guarantee good insulation. Furthermore, attention was paid to the relation between the microstructure transition induced by carbon loss due to thermo-oxidation of the char and the development of the thermal conductivity and thickness of the coatings during the fire test.
Thermal insulation and mechanical resistance play a crucial role for the performance of an intumescent coating. Both properties depend strongly on the morphology and morphological development of the foamed residue. Small amounts (4 wt%) of fiberglass, clay and a copper salt, respectively, are incorporated into an intumescent coating to study their influence on the morphology and Performance of the residues. The bench scale fire tests were performed on 75 x 75 x 2 mm³ coated steel plates according to the standard time–temperature curve in the Standard Time Temperature Muffle Furnace+ (STT Mufu+). It provided information about foaming dynamics (expansion rates) and thermal insulation. Adding the copper salt halved the expansion height, whereas the clay and fiberglass Change the height of the residue only moderately. The time to reach 500 °C was improved by 31% for clay and 15% for the other two fillers. Nondestructive micro computed tomography is used to assess the inner structure of the residues. A transition of the residue from a black, carbonaceous foam with closed cells into an inorganic, residual open cell sponge occurs at high temperatures. This transition is due to a loss of carbon; the change in microstructure is analyzed by scanning electron microscopy. Additional mechanical tests are performed and interpreted with respect to the results of the morphology analysis. Adding clay or copper salt improved the mechanical resistance tested by a factor 4. The additives significantly influence the thickness and foaming Dynamics as well as the inner structure of the residues, whereas their influence on insulation Performance is moderate. In conclusion, different modes of action are observed to achieve similar insulation performance during the fire test.
Synergistic multicomponent systems containing melamine poly(metal phosphate)s have been recently proposed as flame retardants. This work focuses on the decomposition pathways, molecular mechanisms and morphology of the fire residues of epoxy resin (EP) flame retarded with melamine poly(zinc phosphate) (MPZnP) to explain the modes of action and synergistic effects with selected synergists (melamine polyphosphate (MPP) and AlO(OH), respectively). The total load of flame retardants was always 20 wt.%. The decomposition pathways were investigated in detail via thermogravimetric Analysis coupled with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The fire residues were investigated via elemental analysis und solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The morphology of intumescent fire residues was investigated via micro-computed tomography and scanning electron microscopy.
EP + (MPZnP + MPP) formed a highly voluminous residue that showed structural features of both EP + MPZnP and EP + MPP, resulting in a highly effective protection layer. EP + (MPZnP + AlO(OH)) preserved the entire quantity of phosphorus content during combustion due to the Formation of Zn₂P₂O₇ and AlPO₄.
Photo- and thermo-oxidative stability of aromatic spiro-linked bichromophoric cross-shaped molecules
(2000)
An extensive investigation of the photostability and the thermo-oxidative stability is presented for 2,2,7,7-tetrakis(biphenyl-4-yl)-9,9-spirobifluorene and 2,2,4,4,7,7-hexakis(biphenyl-4-yl)-9,9-spirobifluorene. Both compounds are conjugated fully aromatic systems that are being discussed as active functional materials for a variety of advanced applications. The effect of atmosphere, sample thickness and preparation procedure on photo-oxidative degradation are investigated in detail by absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy. Distinct mechanisms are described in terms of relevant parameters such as the quantum yields of the photo-oxidation and the fluorescence. No oxidative degradation could be detected under nitrogen. In ambient air a strong decrease of the fluorescence performance is found due to effective quenching by defective chromophores. Chemiluminescence investigations were performed to characterise the thermo-oxidative behaviour in the temperature region between 300 and 450 K. It becomes clear that even a stable chemical structure such as the investigated aromatic system does not guarantee sufficient photostability with regard to light emitting properties.
About this Journal
The excitation energy transfer (EET) of a bichromophoric cross-shaped molecule was investigated by stationary polarized fluorescence spectroscopy in the solid state. For this purpose 2,2[prime],7,7[prime]-tetrakis(biphenyl-4-yl)-9,9[prime]-spirobifluorene was embedded in a polymeric bisphenol-A-polycarbonate (PC) matrix. The dependence of the fluorescence on concentration and wavelength was determined. The role of the intermolecular and intramolecular EET is dealt with separately and discussed by means of the degree of polarization. The intermolecular excitation energy transfer is described in terms of a Förster transfer mechanism. The intramolecular transfer is prevented for the zero-point vibrational levels by the molecular cross-shaped structure, but is found for a wide range of wavelength, presumably based on vibrationally excited states.
Polymeric intumescent coatings are fire protective materials that increase their thermal resistance when exposed to high temperatures to prevent building structures from damage. The idea of the investigation was to develop a simple test method to determine the time dependent thermal conductivity of intumescent coatings. Therefore steel plates were coated with two different intumescent systems. During cone calorimeter tests the temperature at the back side of the coated plates was measured. These results were used to calculate the time dependent thermal resistance of the protective layer with the simulation program IOPT2D for different external heat fluxes and different layer thickness.
A comprehensive characterization of the thermal and the fire behaviour is presented for polypropylene (PP) flax compounds containing ammonium polyphosphate (APP) and expandable graphite as fire retardants. Thermogravimetry coupled with an evolved gas analysis (TG-FTIR) was performed to ensure a significant thermal analysis. The fire response under forced flaming conditions was studied using a cone calorimeter. The external heat flux was varied between 30 and 70 kW m-2 so that the results could be evaluated for different fire scenarios and tests. Different flammability tests (UL 94, limiting oxygen index, glow wire test, GMI 60261) were performed and the results compared with the cone calorimeter data. The different char forming mechanisms are described and the resulting fire retardancy is classified. The successful and ecological friendly fire retardancy is a technological breakthrough for PP/flax biocomposites.
Polymeric nanocomposites are discussed as one of the most promising advanced materials whose nanoscale effects can be exploited for industry. Layered silicate polypropylene-graft-maleic anhydride nanocomposites are investigated as a model to clarify the potential of such materials in terms of fire retardancy. The nanostructure is characterized using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and shear viscosity. The fire behavior is characterized using different external heat fluxes in cone calorimeter, limiting oxygen index and UL 94 classification. A comprehensive fire behavior characterization is presented which enables an assessment of the materials’ potential with respect to different fire scenarios and fire tests. The influence of morphology and the active mechanisms are discussed, such as barrier formation and changed melt viscosity. To our knowledge, it is the first attempt to illuminate the concept’s strengths, such as the reduction of flame spread, and weaknesses, such as the lack of influence on ignitability, in a clear, comprehensive and detailed manner.
Flame Retardant Mechanisms of Red Phosphorus and Magnesium Hydroxide in High Impact Polystyrene
(2004)
The flame retardant mechanisms of red phosphorus, magnesium hydroxide and red phosphorus combined with magnesium hydroxide were studied in high impact polystyrene by means of comprehensive decomposition studies and combustion tests. The study is intended to illuminate prerequisites and the potential of red phosphorus as a fire retardant for hydrocarbon polymers in the condensed phase and in the gas phase. Thermal and thermo-oxidative decomposition, decomposition kinetics and the product gases evolved were characterized using thermogravimetry coupled with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and mass spectroscopy, respectively. Fire behaviour was investigated with a cone calorimeter using different external heat fluxes, whereas the flammability was determined by limited oxygen indices. The combustion residues were analysed using XPS. Red phosphorus reduced the heat release in HIPS due to radical trapping in the gas phase. Magnesium hydroxide influenced fire behaviour by heat sink mechanisms, release of water and the formation of a magnesia layer acting as a barrier. The combination of both flame retardants in HIPS nearly resulted in a superposition. A slight synergy in barrier characteristics was due to the formation of magnesium phosphate, whereas a slight anti-synergism occurred in flammability and in the gas phase action. The latter effect is controlled by a decreased fuel rate due to the barrier layer rather than by an initiation of red phosphorus oxidation in the condensed phase.
On the thermal behaviour and thermo-oxidative stability of liquid crystalline triphenylene compounds
(1999)
Columnar discotic materials are considered for applications in the area of photoconductivity and light-emitting diodes. A major requirement is their stability at elevated temperatures and in the presence of oxygen. The thermal and thermo-oxidative behaviour of discotic triphenylene derivatives was investigated by us using various methods, in particular by chemiluminescence (CL), UV-vis absorption spectroscopy and in situ thermogravimetry-mass spectroscopy (TG-MS). Various degradation processes are described for increasing temperature, and their influences on functional properties are discussed.
Polarized fluorescence and orientational order parameters of a liquid-crystalline conjugated polymer
(1999)
We report a study of the orientational order of aligned thin films of the liquid crystalline conjugated polymer poly(9,9-dioctylfluorene). Steady state polarized fluorescence measurements were used to determine the orientational order parameter <P2> and <P4>. The influence of intermolecular and intramolecular excitation energy transfer on the degree of polarization is discussed. The role of film morphology is also examined by comparison of the results for glassy and crystalline films.
The thermo-oxidative degradation of a polymeric optical cable is investigated by chemiluminescence, The results are reliable and reproducible. Two distinct processes are reported marked by a peak and a plateau behavior versus the time, respectively. Both processes are ruled by thermally activated processes. Beside the dependencies of temperature and time, the influence of absorbed water is discussed. Chemiluminescence is proposed as a promising candidate for a suitable testing method assessing the thermo-oxidative stability of plastic optical fibers and cables. it requires not more than a simple one-day testing procedure and has the advantage that it can be carried out even within the lo cv temperature ranges of the cables' intended use.
The morphology and thermal behaviour of polypropylenegraftmaleic anhydride (PPgMA) layered silicate (montmorillonite) nanocomposites were investigated using X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetry. The study focuses on the influence of the presence of oxygen during the preparation of PPgMAnanocomposite using two different modified clays. The nanocomposites show tactoid, intercalated and exfoliated structures side by side with different dominant states depending on the clay used and on the processing conditions. The systems are described as multi-component blends rather than binary blends since the organic ions do not only change the mixing behaviour, but also influence material properties. Beside the physical barrier property of the clay layers also chemical processes were found to play an important role.
The influence of different organobentonites on the decomposition and the combustion behaviour of an epoxy resin were examined. The epoxy resin is a cationically polymerised cycloaliphatic epoxy resin flexibilised with poly(tetrahydrofuran) (PTHF), with hydroxyl endgroups. The bentonite was modified with either an ammonium or a phosphonium salt. The thermal decomposition of the PTHF induced by the initiator, used for the cationic polymerisation, did neither take place for the nanocomposite based on the ammonium bentonite nor for that based on the phosphonium bentonite. This improved decomposition characteristic lead to a larger time to ignition for both kinds of nanocomposites compared to the not modified polymer, which is not the case for other polymer/clay nanocomposites described in the literature. The fire behaviour was investigated using limiting oxygen index (LOI), a horizontal burner test and a cone calorimeter. The forced flaming conditions in the cone calorimeter were varied using different external heat fluxes between 30 and 70 kW · m-2. The fire behaviour of the nanocomposites was improved in comparison to the polymer, and phosphonium bentonite was superior to ammonium bentonite. The main mechanism is a barrier formation resulting in a reduction of the fire growth rate, which was more pronounced in the case of high external heat fluxes.
Flammschutz von Polymeren
(2004)
Polymer-Layered Silicate Nanocomposites: new Flame Retardant Apporoach for polymeric Materials
(2003)
Pyrolysis and fire behavior of high impact polystyrene (HIPS) containing red phosphorus and melamine polyphosphate were investigated. The thermal and thermo-oxidative decomposition were characterized using thermogravimetry coupled with FTIR and MS, respectively. The fire behavior was monitored with a cone calorimeter using different external heat fluxes and determining the LOI. Red phosphorus reduced the heat release in HIPS due to radical trapping in the gas phase. The reduction in effective heat of combustion was accompanied by an increase of incomplete combustion products such as smoke and carbon monoxide. Melamine polyphosphate in HIPS acted in the condensed phase with barrier formation. The heat release rate was reduced, whereas the total heat evolved, smoke and carbon monoxide formation were not influenced significantly. Using both fire retardants, the resulting fire retardancy was characterized mainly by superposition.
Phosphonium-modified layered silicate epoxy resin nanocomposites were evaluated by testing the thermal/thermo-mechanical properties [differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), torsional pendulum, Sharpy toughness], flammability (limiting oxygen index LOI) and fire behavior (cone calorimeter with different irradiations). The morphology of the composites was determined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The drying conditions of phosphonium-modified layered silicate were varied in order to improve the nanocomposite formation and properties. The results were compared with using a commercial ammonium-modified montmorillonite. Enhanced nanocomposite formation was found for the commercial systems due to the amount of excess surfactant, but this effect was overcompensated through the advanced morphology of the phosphonium-modified systems. Several fire retardancy mechanisms and their specific influence on the different fire properties, such as ignitability, flammability, flame spread, total heat release (fire load), and the production of CO and smoke were discussed comprehensively. The main mechanism of layered silicate is a barrier formation influencing the flame spread in developing fires. Several minor mechanisms are significant, but important fire properties such as flammability or fire load are hardly influenced. Hence combinations with aluminum hydroxide and organo-phosphorus flame retardants were evaluated. The combination with aluminum hydroxide was a promising approach since it shows superposition in properties such as the fire load and only in some properties very little antagonism. The combination with an organo-phosphorus flame retardant disillusions, since it was characterized mainly by antagonism.
The pyrolysis and the fire behaviour of PC/ABS containing various aryl phosphates and their combinations with aluminium hydroxide oxide, talc and zinc borate were investigated. Main interest was focused on the flame retardant effect and mechanism of aryl phosphates (e.g. BDP) in PC/ABS, especially in combination with the other additives. Therefore the thermal and thermo oxidative decomposition was characterised by the means of thermogravimetry analysis and thermogravimetry coupled with infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (TG-FTIR). The results were verified with further methods, e.g. pyrolysis-gaschromatography/mass spectroscopy (Py-GC/MS). Kinetic analysis and evolved gas analysis were used to study the pyrolysis mechanisms and to expose existent synergisms in the combined systems. The fire behaviour was investigated by cone calorimeter. The flammability was determined by LOI and UL 94. The chemical compositions of the residues were also examined.
Starting from trivalent 10-alkoxy-10H-9-oxa-10-phosphaphenanthrenes, a broad range of DOPO derivatives was synthesized via transesterification with aliphatic alcohols and subsequent Michaelis-Arbuzov rearrangement using catalytic amounts of p-toluenesulfonic acid methylester. Due to the considerable differences in the nature of the alcohols employed, several procedures for processing them are presented.
The fire retardancy mechanisms of aluminium diethylphosphinate in combination with melamine polyphosphate and zinc borate was analysed in glass-fibre reinforced polyamide 6,6. The influence of phosphorus compounds on the polyamide decomposition pathways was characterized using thermal analysis (TG), evolved gas analysis (TGFTIR), and FTIRATR analysis of the residue. The Lewis acidbase interactions between the flame retardants, the amide unit, and the metal ions control the decomposition. The flammability (LOI, UL 94) and performance under forced-flaming conditions (cone calorimeter using different irradiations) were investigated. Fire residues were analysed with FTIRATR, SEMEDX, and NMR. Aluminium phosphinate in polyamide 6,6 acts mainly by flame inhibition. Melamine polyphosphate shows some fuel dilution and a significant barrier effect. Using a combination of aluminium phosphinate and melamine polyphosphate results in some charring and a dominant barrier effect. These effects are improved in the presence of zinc borate due to the formation of boronaluminium phosphates instead of aluminium phosphates.
A method was developed to assess the heat insulation performance of intumescent coatings. The method consists of temperature measurements using the bench-scaled experimental set-up of a cone calorimeter and finite difference simulation to calculate the effective thermal conductivity dependent on time/temperature. This simulation procedure was also adapted to the small scale test furnace, in which the standard time-temperature curve is applied to a larger sample and thus which provides results relevant for approval. Investigations on temperature and calculated effective thermal conduction were performed on intumescent coatings in both experimental set-ups using various coating thicknesses. The results correspond to each other as well as showing the limits of transferability between both fire tests. It is shown that bench-scaled cone calorimeter tests are a valuable tool for assessing and predicting the performance of intumescent coatings in larger tests relevant for approval. The correlation fails for processes at surface temperatures above 750°C, which are not reached in the cone calorimeter, but are attained in the small scale furnace set-up.
The pyrolysis combustion flow calorimeter (PCFC) as a tool for assessing the flammability of a polycarbonate (bisphenol A)/acrylonitrilebutadienestyrene (PC/ABS) blend containing different flame retardants and additives was investigated. Strategies are proposed for analysing multi-step decomposition. The heat release capacity (HRC) and total heat release (HR), obtained by PCFC, are related to the char yield and the heat of complete combustion of the volatiles. Physical affects such as dripping, wicking, and sample thickness are not described, nor are chemical effects such as flame inhibition because pyrolysis and combustion are forced to completion on a small (milligram) sample. Varying the combustion temperature or oxygen concentration results in incomplete combustion as occuring in real fires. The correlations with flammability (UL 94, LOI) and forced flaming combustion in a cone calorimeter are discussed. The best correlation is found between HR and LOI. Reasonable correlation exists between HRC and char residue with the LOI and for HRC and HR with peak heat release rate (pHRR) in the cone calorimeter. Combining results from PCFC with those from oxygen bomb or cone calorimeter tests yields an additional understanding of fire behaviour.
Dielectric Study of Molecular Mobility in Poly(propylene-graft-maleic anhydride)/Clay Nanocomposites
(2005)
Polymer/clay nanocomposite materials based on poly(propylene-graft-maleic anhydride) (PPgMAH) and two different organophilic modified clays were investigated by dielectric relaxation spectroscopy (DRS). In contrast to ungrafted polypropylene (PP), PPgMAH shows a dielectrically active relaxation process which can be assigned to localized fluctuations of the polar maleic anhydride groups. Its relaxation rate exhibits an unusual temperature dependence, which could be attributed to a redistribution of water molecules in the polymeric matrix. This is confirmed by a combination of Raman spectroscopy and thermogravimetric experiments (TGA) with real-time dielectric measurements under controlled atmospheres. In the nanocomposites this relaxation process is shifted to higher frequencies up to 3 orders of magnitude compared to the unfilled polymer. This indicates a significantly enhanced molecular mobility in the interfacial regions. In the nanocomposite materials a separate high-temperature process due to Maxwell-Wagner-Sillars (MWS) polarization was observed. The time constant of this MWS process can be correlated with characteristic length scales in nanocomposites and therefore provides additional information on dispersion and delamination/exfoliation of clay platelets in these materials. These properties also influence the diffusivity of the water molecules as revealed by real-time dielectric investigations.
The cone calorimeter has become one of the most important and widely used instruments for the research and development of fire retarded polymeric materials. The paper addresses three important ways in which the principal setup influences the results factors which sometimes do not receive due consideration when drawing conclusions. The paper discusses in detail the impact on cone calorimeter results of the choice of external heat flux, the influence on the peak of heat release rate of sample thickness and thermal feedback from the back of the sample, and the influence on irradiance of the horizontal and vertical distances from the cone heater.
A novel phosphorus-modified polysulfone (P-PSu) was employed as a combined toughness modifier and a source of flame retardancy for a DGEBA/DDS thermosetting system. In comparison to the results of a commercially available polysulfone (PSu), commonly used as a toughness modifier, the chemorheological changes during curing measured by means of temperature-modulated DSC revealed an earlier occurrence of mobility restrictions in the P-PSu-modified epoxy. A higher viscosity and secondary epoxy-modifier reactions induced a sooner vitrification of the reacting mixture; effects that effectively prevented any phase separation and morphology development in the resulting material during cure. Thus, only about a 20% increase in fracture toughness was observed in the epoxy modified with 20 wt.% of P-PSu, cured under standard conditions at 180 °C for 2 h. Blends of the phosphorus-modified and the standard polysulfone (PSu) were also prepared in various mixing ratios and were used to modify the same thermosetting system. Again, no evidence for phase separation of the P-PSu was found in the epoxy modified with the P-PSu/PSu blends cured under the selected experimental conditions. The particular microstructures formed upon curing these novel materials are attributed to a separation of PSu from a miscible P-PSuepoxy mixture. Nevertheless, the blends of P-PSu/PSu were found to be effective toughness/flame retardancy enhancers owing to the simultaneous microstructure development and polymer interpenetration.
Thermal, thermo-oxidative and fire residues of high impact polystyrene/magnesium hydroxide/red phosphorus (HIPS/Mg(OH)2/Pr) are investigated by solid-state NMR and compared with the results for the binary subsystem Mg(OH)2/Pr. The influences of oxygen, nitrogen and temperature are discussed. For a thermal decomposition and pyrolysis during combustion, the main pyrolysis of HIPS takes place while the remaining residue is a rather intact polymer, with a major share of the embedded Pr still present. Subsequently, mainly amorphous phosphates and a slight amount of crystalline Mg3(PO4)2 and Mg2P2O7 are formed at the highest temperatures. Only with increasing mass loss does the remaining polystyrene structure decompose and graphitic structures occur. The influence of oxygen on the decomposition mechanism is most obvious for the binary system Mg(OH)2/Pr. Pr vanishes more rapidly and crystalline, oxygen-rich magnesium phosphates are formed. In HIPS/Mg(OH)2/Pr systems the polymer acts as a barrier to reaction by the embedded particles, so that major characteristics of an anaerobic decomposition are found. Significant amounts of phosphorus are retained in the condensed phase through a reaction of Pr with Mg(OH)2 to mostly amorphous phosphates. This formation of amorphous inorganic magnesium phosphates can act as an additional physical barrier. This study outlines some advanced approaches for controlling the condensed-phase mechanisms of phosphorus and underlines that solid-state NMR is a most powerful tool for investigating the organic and inorganic residues.
A comparative evaluation of systematically tailored chemical structures of various phosphorus-containing aminic hardeners for epoxy resins was carried out. In particular, the effect of the oxidation state of the phosphorus in the hardener molecule on the curing behavior, the mechanical, thermomechanical, and hot-wet properties of a cured bifunctional bisphenol-A based thermoset is discussed. Particular attention is paid to the comparative pyrolysis of neat cured epoxy resins containing phosphine oxide, phosphinate, phosphonate, and phosphate (with a phosphorus content of about 2.6 wt %) and of the fire behavior of their corresponding carbon fiber-reinforced composites. Comparatively faster curing thermosetting system with an enhanced flame retardancy and adequate processing behavior can be formulated by taking advantage of the higher reactivity of the phosphorus-modified hardeners. For example, a combination of the high reactivity and of induced secondary crosslinking reactions leads to a comparatively high Tg when curing the epoxy using a substoichiometric amount of the phosphinate-based hardener. The overall mechanical performance of the materials cured with the phosphorus-containing hardeners is comparable to that of a 4,4-DDS-cured reference system. While the various phosphorus-containing hardeners in general provide the epoxy-based matrix with enhanced flame retardancy properties, it is the flame inhibition in the gas phase especially that determines the improvement in fire retardancy of carbon fiber-reinforced composites. In summary, the present study provides an important contribution towards developing a better understanding of the potential use of such phosphorus-containing compounds to provide the composite matrix with sufficient flame retardancy while simultaneously maintaining its overall mechanical performance on a suitable level.
There is little consensus within the fire science community on interpretation of cone calorimeter data, but there is a significant need to screen new flammability modified materials using the cone calorimeter. This article is the result of several discussions aiming to provide guidance in the use and interpretation of cone calorimetry for those directly involved with such measurements. This guidance is essentially empirical, and is not intended to replace the comprehensive scientific studies that already exist. The guidance discusses the fire scenario with respect to applied heat flux, length scale, temperature, ventilation, anaerobic pyrolysis and set-up represented by the cone calorimeter. The fire properties measured in the cone calorimeter are discussed, including heat release rate and its peak, the mass loss and char yield, effective heat of combustion and combustion efficiency, time to ignition and CO and smoke production together with deduced quantities such as FIGRA and MARHE. Special comments are made on the use of the cone calorimeter relating to sample thickness, textiles, foams and intumescent materials, and the distance of the cone heater from the sample surface. Finally, the relationship between cone calorimetry data and other tests is discussed.
Barrier formation and increasing the melt viscosity are addressed as the two main general fire retardancy mechanisms of polymer nanocomposites. They result in specific impacts on fire properties that consequentially cause varying flame retardancy efficiency in different fire tests. The barrier formation retards mainly flame spread (peak of heat release rate) in developing fires, but does not reduce fire load (total heat evolved), ignitability or flammability (limiting oxygen index, UL 94). Furthermore, this flame retardancy effect increases with increasing irradiation and vanishes with decreasing irradiation. The increased melt viscosity prevents dripping, which is beneficial or disadvantageous depending on the fire test used. In some test, it become the dominant influence, transforming self-extinguishing samples into flammable materials or causing wicking. Advantages and the limits are sketched comprehensively for exploiting the main general fire retardancy mechanisms of polymer nanocomposites. It is concluded that barrier formation and changing the melt viscosity in nanocomposites are not sufficient for most applications, but must be accompanied by additional mechanisms in special systems or in combination with other flame retardants.
The pyrolysis of an epoxy resin and the fire behavior of corresponding carbon fiber-reinforced composites, both flame-retarded with either 10-ethyl-9,10-dihydro-9-oxa-10-phosphaphenanthrene 10-oxide or 1,3,5-tris[2-(9,10-dihydro-9-oxa-10-phosphaphenanthrene 10-oxide-10-)ethyl]1, 3,5-triazine-2,4,6(1H,3H,5H)-trione, are investigated. The different fire retardancy mechanisms are discussed, and their influence on the fire properties assessed, in particular for flammability (limiting oxygen index, UL 94) and developing fires (cone calorimeter with different external heat fluxes of 35, 50, and 70 kW m-2). Adding the flame retardants containing 9,10-dihydro-9-oxa-10-phosphaphenanthrene-10-oxide affects the fire behavior by both condensed phase and gas phase mechanisms. Interactions between the additives and the epoxy resin result in a change in the decomposition pathways and an increased char formation. The release of phosphorous products results in significant flame inhibition. The fire properties achieved are thus interesting with respect to industrial exploration.
The flame retardancy mechanisms of aluminium diethylphosphinate (AlPi) and its combination with melamine cyanurate (MC) in glass-fibre-reinforced poly(butylene terephthalate) (PBT/GF) were analysed using TGA including evolved gas analysis (TGA-FTIR), cone calorimeter measurements using various irradiations, flammability tests (limited oxygen index, LOI, UL 94) and chemical analyses of residues (FTIR, SEM/EDX). AlPi decomposed mainly through the formation of diethylphosphinic acid and aluminium phosphate and influenced the decomposition of the PBT only slightly. AlPi acted mainly through flame inhibition. A halogen-free V-0 PBT/GF material was achieved with a LOI of 44%. Additional charring influenced the flammability. MC decomposed independently of the polymer and showed some fuel dilution effects.
The influence of nano-dispersed 5 wt.% boehmite (AlOOH) and 5 wt.% AlOOH combined with bisphenol A bis(diphenyl phosphate) (BDP) in bisphenol A polycarbonate/acrylonitrilebutadienestyrene (PC/ABS) + poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (PTFE), and 1 wt.% AlOOH with and without BDP, resorcinol bis(diphenyl phosphate) (RDP), and triphenyl phosphate (TPP), on PC/ABS + PTFE has been investigated. Possible flame retardancy mechanisms are revealed. Thermogravimetry (TG) and evolved gas analysis (TG-FTIR) are used to study pyrolysis, a cone calorimeter applying different external heat fluxes is used to investigate fire behaviour, and LOI and UL 94 are used to investigate flammability. Fire residues were investigated using ATR-FTIR.
Adding 5 wt.% AlOOH decreases the peak heat release rate, as also has been reported for polymer nanocomposites with other layered structures. AlOOH releases water, and adding 5 wt.% AlOOH crucially influences thermal decomposition by enhancing the hydrolysis of PC and of BDP. For PC/ABS + PTFE + BDP + 5 wt.% AlOOH, the formation of AlPO4, for instance, results in antagonistic effects on the charring of PC + BDP, whereas synergy is observed in LOI. When only 1 wt.% AlOOH is added to the PC/ABS + PTFE with and without BDP, RDP and TPP, respectively, no significant influence is observed on thermal decomposition, UL 94, LOI or performance in the cone calorimeter.
The flame retardancy of poly(butylene terephthalate) (PBT) containing aluminium diethlyphosphinate (AlPi) and/or nanometric metal oxides such as TiO2 or Al2O3 was investigated. In particular the different active flame retardancy mechanisms were discovered. Thermal analysis, evolved gas analysis (TG-FTIR), flammability tests (LOI, UL 94), cone calorimeter measurements and chemical analyses of residues (ATR-FTIR) were used. AlPi acts mainly in the gas phase through the release of diethylphosphic acid, which provides flame inhibition. Part of AlPi remains in the solid phase reacting with the PBT to phosphinate-terephthalate salts that decompose to aluminium phosphate at higher temperatures. The metal oxides interact with the PBT decomposition and promote the formation of additional stable carbonaceous char in the condensed phase. A combination of metal oxides and AlPi gains the better classification in the UL 94 test thanks to the combination of the different mechanisms.
Entwicklung von flammgeschützten Polymerwerkstoffen - Interpretation von Cone Calorimeter Daten
(2007)
Conjugated polymers based on 1,4-phenylenevinylene units are very promising materials for applications as light-emitting diodes. A major requirement is their stability at elevated temperatures of operation. The thermo-oxidative behaviour of a soluble poly(1,4-phenylenevinylene) derivative, poly[2,5-bis(2-ethylhexyloxy)-1,4-phenylene vinylene], was investigated by using chemiluminescence and UVVis absorption spectroscopy. Extremely sensitive chemiluminescence is successfully applied since even minor chemical changes could lead to a considerable loss of photo- and electro-optical properties. Various degradation processes are described as a function of time and temperature and their influences on functional properties are discussed. The investigated material does not show sufficient thermo-oxidative stability within the temperature range of intended use in contact with air. For industrial application, direct contact with oxygen during processing and operation has to be avoided.
The flame retardant effect of zinc sulphide (ZnS) in plasticised poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC-P) materials was investigated. PVC-P containing different combinations of additives such as 5% ZnS, 5% of antimony oxide (Sb2O3) and 5% of mixtures based on Sb2O3 and ZnS were compared. The thermal degradation and the combustion behaviour were studied using thermogravimetry (TG), coupled with FTIR (TG-FTIR) or with mass spectroscopy (TG-MS), and a cone calorimeter, respectively. A detailed and unambiguous understanding of the decomposition and release of the pyrolysis products was obtained using both TG-MS and TG-FTIR. The influence of ZnS, Sb2O3 and the corresponding mixtures on the thermal decomposition of PVC-P was demonstrated. Synergism was observed for the combination of the two additives. The combustion behaviour (time to ignition, heat release, smoke production, mass loss, CO production) was monitored versus external heat fluxes between 30 and 75 kW m-2 with the cone calorimeter. Adding 5% of ZnS has no significant influence on the fire behaviour of PVC-P materials beyond a dilution effect, whereas Sb2O3 works as an effective fire retardant. Synergism of ZnS and Sb2O3 allows the possibility of replacing half of Sb2O3 by ZnS to reach equivalent fire retardancy.
The thermal degradation and the combustion behavior of glass fiber-reinforced PA 66 materials containing red phosphorus were investigated. Thermogravimetry (TG), TG coupled with FTIR, and TG coupled with mass spectroscopy were used to investigate the thermal decomposition. The flame retardant red phosphorus was investigated with respect to the decomposition kinetics and the release of volatile products. The combustion behavior was characterized using a cone calorimeter. Fire risks and fire hazards were monitored versus external heat fluxes between 30 and 75 kW/m2. Red phosphorus acts in the solid phase and its efficiency depends on the external heat flux. The use of red phosphorus results in an increased amount of residue and in a corresponding decrease in total heat release. The decrease of the mass loss rate peak results in a corresponding decrease of the peak heat release. With increasing external heat flux applied the first effect on the total heat release decreases linearly, whereas the second effect on the peak heat release expands linearly. The investigation provides insight into the mechanisms of how the fire retardant PA 66 is achieved by red phosphorus controlling the degradation kinetics. Taking into account that a decrease of the volatile products also leads to a decrease of heat production in the flame zone and that the char acts as heat transfer barrier, a reduced pyrolysis temperature is suggested as a further feedback effect.
Communication: Fire retardant coatings are deposited on polyamide-66 using plasma polymerisation. Chemical composition and thickness of deposits are adjusted varying the plasma treatment based on hexamethydisiloxane mixed with oxygen. The fire retardancy performances are evaluated using a cone calorimeter. The correlation between fire retardancy and thickness as well as chemical composition is discussed.
On the basis of Wittig-Horner reactions and protection group techniques compound 7 for the core and the components 9a-c and 11a-c for the dendrons were prepared and linked in the final step. The convergent synthesis yielded constitutionally and configurationally pure dendrimers (2a-c, 2a'-c') which consist of distyrylbenzene units. Their thermo-oxidative stability in the presence of air was studied by chemiluminescence and compared to the dendrimers 1 consisting of stilbene units.
Thermogravimetry (TG), thermogravimetry coupled with mass spectroscopy (TG-MS) and thermogravimetry coupled with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (TG-FTIR) were used to characterise the thermo-oxidative behaviour of two intumescent coating materials. The temperature dependence, the corresponding volatile products and the amount of residue of the different processes were determined. Using both TG-MS and TG-FTIR results in an unambiguous interpretation of the volatile products. Characteristics such as the influence of endothermic reactions, the release of non-flammable gases, the dehydrogenation enhancing the char formation and the stability of the cellular char were discussed in detail. It was demonstrated, that TG, TG-MS and TG-FTIR are powerful methods to investigate mechanisms in intumescent coatings and that they are suitable methods in respect to quality assurance and unambiguous identification of such materials.
The exploration of condensed phase mechanisms such as charring and intumescence has been pushed forward in the last decades, since it is believed that focusing on these concepts will bring materials closer to an efficient and ecologically friendly fire retardancy. They promise to concentrate efficient fire retardancy at the key position between pyrolysis zone and gas phase. Examples of residue/char forming and intumescent materials are used to illustrate the influence of mass and heat barrier effects on the fire behavior of materials and general results are presented. A comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms and structure-property relationships in fire retardancy is presented.
Entwicklung von flammgeschützten Polymerwerkstoffen - Interpretation von Cone Calorimeter Daten
(2007)
In this second of a series of two papers, the fire behaviour of halogen-free flame retarded polycarbonate (PC) blends with different impact modifiers was studied. The impact modifiers were acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), a poly(n-butyl acrylate) rubber (PBA) with a poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) shell and two silicone-acrylate rubbers consisting of PBA with different amounts of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and different shell materials (PMMA and styrene-acrylonitrile, SAN). The flame retardant was bisphenol A bis(diphenyl phosphate) (BDP). Flammability was determined by LOI and UL 94. The burning behaviour under forced flaming conditions was studied by cone calorimeter under different external irradiations and by pyrolysis combustion flow calorimeter measurements. The exchange of ABS with the pure acrylate rubber worsened flammability, while similar results were obtained in cone calorimeter measurements. The exchange of ABS with the silicone-acrylate rubbers is promising, particularly with higher amounts of PDMS. In flammability tests strongly enhanced LOI values were obtained and therefore silicone-acrylate rubbers look like promising alternatives for ABS.
In this first of two papers, the thermal decomposition of bisphenol A bis(diphenyl phosphate)-flame retarded polycarbonate (PC) blends with different impact modifiers was studied. The impact modifiers were an acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), a poly(n-butyl acrylate) (PBA) rubber with a poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) shell and two silicone-acrylate rubbers consisting of PBA with different amounts of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and different shells (PMMA and styrene-acrylonitrile, SAN). The focus of this work was to study the impact of the acrylate and silicon-acrylate rubbers with respect to pyrolysis and flame retardancy in comparison to common ABS. Thermogravimetry (TG) was performed to investigate the pyrolysis behaviour and reaction kinetics. TG in combination with FTIR identified the pyrolysis gases. Solid residues were investigated by FTIR-ATR. PC/ABS shows two-step decomposition, with PC decomposing independently from ABS at higher temperatures. Pure acrylate rubber destabilises PC due to interactions between the rubber and PC, which leads to earlier decomposition of PC. Using silicone-acrylate rubbers led to similar results as PC/ABS with respect to pyrolysis, reaction kinetics and analysis of the solid residue; hence the exchange of ABS for the silicone-acrylate rubbers is possible.
The pyrolysis of polycarbonate (PC) and PC/acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (PC/ABS) with and without arylphosphates (triphenylphosphate TPP, resorcinol-bis(diphenyl phosphate) RDP and bisphenol A bis(diphenyl phosphate) BDP) is investigated by thermal analysis as key to understanding the flame retardancy mechanisms and corresponding structure-property relationships. The correspondence between the decomposition temperature range of arylphosphates and PC is pointed out as prerequisite for the occurrence of the reaction between arylphosphate and structures that are typical for the beginning of PC decomposition. Resulting cross-linking enhances charring in the condensed phase and competes with the alternative release of phosphate in the gas phase and thus flame inhibition. Flame inhibition was identified as the main flame retardancy mechanism. The additional condensed phase mechanisms optimise the performance.
Phosphorus-based flame retardancy mechanisms - Old hat or a starting point for future development?
(2010)
Different kinds of additive and reactive flame retardants containing phosphorus are increasingly successful as halogen-free alternatives for various polymeric materials and applications. Phosphorus can act in the condensed phase by enhancing charring, yielding intumescence, or through inorganic glass formation; and in the gas phase through flame inhibition. Occurrence and efficiency depend, not only on the flame retardant itself, but also on its interaction with pyrolysing polymeric material and additives. Flame retardancy is sensitive to modification of the flame retardant, the use of synergists/adjuvants, and changes to the polymeric material. A detailed understanding facilitates the launch of tailored and targeted development.
Highly soluble 9,10-dihydro-9-oxa-10-phosphaphenanthrene-10-oxide-(DOPO)-based diamino hardener (2), bearing its amino groups directly on the DOPO framework, is investigated with respect to its use as a reactive flame retardant in thermosets. A mechanism for decomposition of the corresponding phosphorus-modified epoxy resin system based on a diglycidylether of bisphenol A DGEBA and 2 (DGEBA/2) is proposed and compared to the systems using DGEBA and 4,4'-diaminodiphenylsulfon (DGEBA/DDS) and to a similar system based on the structurally comparable non-reactive DOPO-based compound (DGEBA/DDS/1). Additive 1 changed the decomposition characteristics of the epoxy resin only slightly and phosphorus was released. Incorporating 2 induces two-step decomposition and most of the phosphorus remains in the residue. Furthermore, the fire behaviour of neat epoxy resin systems and a representative carbon fibre-reinforced composite based on DGEBA, DDS and 2 (DGEBA/DDS/2) were examined and compared to that of the analogous composite systems based on DGEBA/DDS and DGEBA/DDS/1. Based on different flame retardancy mechanisms both the reactive compound 2 and the additive compound 1 improve flammability (increase in LOI >13% and achieving V-1 behaviour) of the epoxy resin and composites. Under forced flaming only the flame inhibition of the additive compound 1 acts sufficiently. Lastly, the superior key mechanical properties of the epoxy resin and composite based on 2 are sketched.
Flame retardancy mechanisms of aluminium phosphinate in glass fiber reinforced thermoplastics
(2008)
Influence of weathering on the stability of flame retardancy in polymeric materials for outdoor use
(2009)
Bisphenol A polycarbonate/acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene (PC/ABS) with and without bisphenol A bis(diphenyl phosphate) (BDP) and 5 wt.% zinc borate (Znb) were investigated. The pyrolysis was studied by thermogravimetry (TG), TG-FTIR and NMR, the fire behaviour with a cone calorimeter applying different heat fluxes, LOI and UL 94. Fire residues were examined with NMR. BDP affects the decomposition of PC/ABS and acts as a flame retardant in the gas and condensed phases. The addition of Znb results in an additional hydrolysis of PC. The fire behaviour is similar to PC/ABS, aside from a slightly increased LOI and a reduced peak heat release rate, both caused by borates improving the barrier properties of the char. In PC/ABS + BDP + Znb, the addition of Znb yields a borate network and amorphous phosphates. Znb also reacts with BDP to form alpha-zinc phosphate and borophosphates that suppress the original flame retardancy mechanisms of BDP. The inorganic–organic residue formed provides more effective flame retardancy, in particular at low irradiation in the cone calorimeter, and a clear synergy in LOI, whereas for more developed fires BDP + Znb become less effective than BDP in PC/ABS with respect to the total heat evolved.
On the basis of two examples, temperature measurements are proposed within burning polymer specimen during the cone calorimeter test; especially to gain deeper insight into the actual pyrolysis conditions and flame retardancy mechanism. The heating and pyrolysis within a poly(methyl methacrylate) specimen were characterized, discussing the characteristic maximum heating rates (165-90°Cmin-1 decreasing with depth within the specimen and >275°Cmin-1 at the initial surface), pyrolysis temperature (454-432°C decreasing in accordance with decreasing heating rates), thickness of the pyrolysis zone (0.5-1.3 mm) and its velocity (1.2-2.1 mm min-1) as a function of sample depth and burning time. Thermally thick behaviour corresponds to a pyrolysis zone thickness of 0.74 mm and a velocity of 1.51 mm min-1 and occurs until the remaining specimen thickness is less than 8 mm. The shielding effect against radiation occurring in a layered silicate epoxy resin nanocomposite was investigated. It is the main flame retardancy effect of the silicate-carbon surface layer formed under fire. The reradiation from the hot surface is increased by a factor of around 4-5 when an irradiance of 70kWm-2 is applied. The energy impact into the pyrolysis zone is crucially reduced, resulting in a reduction of fuel production and thus heat release rate.
The pyrolysis and flammability of phosphonium-modified layered silicate epoxy resin nanocomposites (EP/LS) were evaluated when LS was combined with two flame retardants, melamine borate (MB) and ammonium polyphosphate (APP), that also act via a surface protection layer. Thermogravimetry (TG), TG coupled with Fourier Transform Spectroscopy (TG-FTIR), oxygen index (LOI), UL 94 burning chamber (UL 94) and cone calorimeter were used. The glassy coating because of 10 wt % MB during combustion showed effects in the cone calorimeter test similar to nanodispersed LS, and somewhat better flame retardancy in flammability tests, such as LOI and UL 94. Adding APP to EP resulted in intumescent systems. The fire retardancy was particularly convincing when 15 wt % APP was used, especially for low external heat flux, and thus, also in flammability tests like LOI and UL 94. V0 classification is achieved when 15 wt % APP is used in EP. The flame retardancy efficiency of the protection layers formed does not increase linearly with the MB and APP concentrations used. The combination of LS with MB or APP shows antagonism; thus the performance of the combination of LS with MB or APP, respectively, was disappointing. No optimization of the carbonaceous-inorganic surface layer occurred for LS-MB. Combining LS with APP inhibited the intumescence, most probably through an increase in viscosity clearly above the value needed for intumescent behavior.
Eyewitnesses describe burning pavement surfaces in extreme fire scenarios. However, it was believed that the pavement plays a negligible role in comparison to other items feeding such an extreme fire at the same time. The asphalt mixtures used differ widely, thus raising the question as to whether this conclusion holds for all kinds of such materials. Three different kinds of asphalt mixtures were investigated with the aim of benchmarking the fire risks. Cone calorimeter tests are performed at an irradiance of 70kWm-2. All three investigated asphalts burn in extreme fire scenarios. The fire response (fire load, time to ignition, maximum heat release rate and smoke production) is quite different and varies by factors of up to 10 when compared to each other. The fire load per mass is always very low due to the high content of inert minerals, whereas the effective heat of combustion of the volatiles is quite typical of non-flame retarded organics. The heat release rate and fire growth indices are strongly dependent on the fire residue and thus the kind of mineral filler used. Comparing with polymeric materials, the investigated Mastic Asphalt and Stone Mastic Asphalt may be called intrinsically flame resistant, whereas the investigated Special Asphalt showed a pronouncedly greater fire risk with respect to causing fire growth and smoke. Thus the question is raised as to whether the use of certain kinds of asphalts in tunnels must be reconsidered. Apart from the binder used, the study also indicates varying the kind of aggregate as a possible route to eliminate the problem.