Synergistic flame retardancy of ZnO and piperazine pyrophosphate/melamine cyanurate in polypropylene

In order to improve the flame retardant efficiency and smoke-suppression of piperazine pyrophosphate/melamine cyanurate (PPAP/MCA) in PP, the synergism of ZnO and PPAP/MCA was investigated by limiting oxygen index (LOI) determination, UL-94 test, and cone calorimetry test (CCT). It is found that ZnO performs an exceptional synergism in flame retardant effect and inhibition on the flame propagation. Besides, ZnO can significantly inhibit the production of the smoke and CO. The TGA of the PP composites, the component and structure analysis of the heated composites and CCT residues reveal that ZnO performs the synergism primarily by the following modes: ZnO promotes obviously the charring of the composite, and improves the thermal stability as well as the strength of the intumescent layer, which brings about an improved flame retardant property and inhibiting ability on the flame propagation.

Automated summary

It has been found that zinc oxide (ZnO) exhibits exceptional synergy with other flame retardants in polypropylene composites, leading to significant improvements in flame retardant efficiency and suppression of flame propagation. Additionally, ZnO can effectively inhibit the production of smoke and carbon monoxide (CO).