Intumescent mineral fire retardant systems in ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer: Effect of silica particles on char cohesion

Silica particles of different physical properties (particle size, morphology and specific surface area) were introduced into an ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer filled with an intumescent mineral fire retardant system containing magnesium hydroxide and organo-modified montmorillonites. The effect of silica particles on the cohesion and strength of the foamed combustion residue was studied by micro-indentation, concurrently with the characterization of material's fire behavior. Silica particles seem to act as defects that generate cracks, decreasing the strength of the residue. This generation of cracks is connected to a lower cohesion of the residue, especially for silica particles of high specific surface area. In parallel, the presence of silica of high specific surface area, despite tending to decrease Time To Ignition, also improves self-extinguishing ability, thanks to a better thermal stability at higher temperatures, and reduces the maximum Heat Release Rate in cone calorimeter tests. (c) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.