A Mo-based metal-organic framework toward improving flame retardancy and smoke suppression of epoxy resin

In this work, a Mo-based metal-organic framework (Mo-MOF) was first used as flame retardant for epoxy resin (EP). It was found that Mo-MOF particles showed an excellent dispersion state and good compatibility in the EP matrix. Burning test results showed that the flame retardancy and smoke suppression of EP were obviously improved due to the introduction of Mo-MOF. Compared with pure EP, 6 wt% Mo-MOF reduced the values of peak heat release rate (pHRR), peak smoke production rate (pSPR), total smoking production (TSP) and peak CO production rate (pCOP) by 44.7%, 21.8%, 25.1%, and 42.9%, respectively. Moreover, the limited oxygen index (LOI) value of the composites increased from 24.8% to 32.8% compared with the pure EP, and UL-94 reached V2 rating with no dripping in the vertical burning test. The combustion products of EP composites were also detected and analyzed to obtain the possible flame retardant and smoke suppression mechanisms of Mo-MOF.

Automated summary

The Mo-based metal-organic framework (Mo-MOF) used as a flame retardant for epoxy resin (EP) showed excellent dispersion and compatibility, leading to improved flame retardancy and smoke suppression. Introduction of Mo-MOF reduced peak heat release rate, peak smoke production rate, and increased LOI and UL-94 rating for the composites. Detection and analysis of combustion products revealed possible flame retardant and smoke suppression mechanisms.