Cyclotriphosphazene fibre reinforced poly(benzoxazine-co-ε-caprolactam) nanocomposites for flame retardant applications

• Published in: Chinese journal of polymer science 2014-08, Vol.32 (8), p.1086-1098
• Main Authors: Selvi, M., Devaraju, S., Sethuraman, K., Revathi, R., Alagar, M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Characterization and Evaluation of Materials; Chemistry; Chemistry and Materials Science; Combustion; Condensed Matter Physics; Constraining; Dispersions; Flame retardants; Flammability; Industrial Chemistry/Chemical Engineering; Lead zirconate titanates; Nanocomposites; Polymer Sciences; Ratings
• ISSN: 0256-7679; 1439-6203
• DOI: 10.1007/s10118-014-1479-9

Cyclophosphazene nanotube (PZT) incorporated poly(benzoxazine- co -ɛ-caprolactam) (P(BZ- co -CPL)) nanocomposites were developed for improving flame retardant properties. The effects of PZT on the flammability properties of P(BZ- co -CPL) matrix were evaluated through UL-94 flammability test and limiting oxygen index (LOI). The UL-94 results of P(BZ- co -CPL)/PZT hybrid nanocomposites showed V-1 rating, whereas neat P(BZ- co -CPL) showed burning rating. The LOI values are increased from 25.4 to 31.4 for 1.5 wt% PZT incorporated P(BZ- co -CPL) nanocomposite systems. SEM was used to study the char morphology of P(BZ- co -CPL)/PZT after being exposed to UL-94 flammability test. Data from thermal studies indicate that the PZT incorporated P(BZ- co -CPL) systems possess better T g and thermal degradation behavior when compared to the neat P(BZ- co -CPL). The values of dielectric constant are decreased with increasing temperature. From the values, it is ascertained that the P(BZ- co -CPL)/PZT systems exhibit stable dielectric behavior with regard to variation in temperature. The TEM images ascertain the uniform dispersion of PZT in the P(BZ- co -CPL) matrix.