Facile and green synthesis of mechanically fl exible and fl ame-retardant clay/graphene oxide nanoribbon interconnected networks for fi re safety and prevention

Water-based hybrid graphene oxide nanoribbon (GONR)/montmorillonite (MMT)/polyethylene glycol (PEG) networks were prepared by using a facile bio-inspired low-temperature evaporation induced assembling process. Multiple non-covalent and covalent interactions together with a high orientation level of MMT were constructed in the hybrid PEG/MMT/GONR networks. As a result, the hybrid networks exhibit synergistic reinforcing and toughening efficiencies when compared with the composites modified with the single-phase filler, e.g. 152% and 167% increase in tensile strength for the optimized ternary composites in comparison with those of the binary composites. Moreover, the nacre-like hybrid networks show excellent flame resistance and structural stability in a flame due to the formation of interconnected and compact char after combustion, which can be applied as protective coatings to combustible materials. The hybrid coatings not only improve the flame-retardant property (e.g.-46% decrease in heat release rate at 30 wt%) of the combustible PU foam materials significantly, but also provide ideal fire alarm responses (e.g. rapid flame detection of-2 s and effective fire early warning signals in pre-combustion). Owing to the green and versatile synthesis scheme, excellent mechanical performance and flame resistance, these hybrid PEG/MMT/GONR networks are promising widespread application.

Automated summary

Water-based hybrid graphene oxide nanoribbon/montmorillonite/polyethylene glycol networks were prepared with multiple interactions and high orientation. These networks exhibit synergistic reinforcing and toughening efficiencies, excellent flame resistance, and structural stability, making them promising for widespread application as protective coatings.