The influence of γ-irradiation on the mechanical, thermal degradation, and flame retardant properties of EVA/LDPE/ATH blends

This work aimed to study the influence of gamma-irradiation on the mechanical and thermal properties of flame retardant EVA/LDPE/ATH blends. Flame retardant poly(ethylene vinyl acetate)/low-density polyethylene/aluminum hydroxide (EVA/LDPE/ATH) blends were prepared, with a LOI value of 40 % and UL-94 V0 rating. The influence of different gamma-irradiation levels on flammability as well as mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties of EVA/LDPE/ATH blends was investigated. The flame resistance of EVA/LDPE/ATH blends was found to be slightly improved after gamma-irradiation, and meanwhile the mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties were all enhanced due to the increase of cross-linking density. Moreover, thermogravimetric analysis/infrared spectra (TG-IR) were used to explore the thermal degradation process of the EVA/LDPE blends. TG-IR results indicated that the thermal degradation of EVA/LDPE/ATH blends was delayed after gamma-irradiation, and the reduced pyrolysis products amounts were responsible for the improved fire resistance and thermal stability.