Synthesis, characterization and properties of novel self-extinguishing organic-inorganic nanocomposites containing nitrogen, silicon and phosphorus via sol-gel method

Organic-in organic nanocomposites were prepared using epoxy and silane modified isocyanuric acid triglycidyl ester (SM-IATE). Novel epoxy nanocomposites containing silicon, nitrogen and phosphorus were fabricated successfully via the sol-gel method to increase thermal stability and flame retardant property. The epoxy was modified by a coupling agent to improve the compatibility of the organic and inorganic phases. Results revealed that T 3 are the major environments forming a network structure. XRD showed the structures of hybrids were amorphous. DSC presented that the hybrids possessed a good thermal stability. LOI implied that nanocomposites matched the self-extinguishing property. TGA/MS showed that hybrids liberated less toxic gases than that of pure epoxy. UV/vis spectrum of epoxy hybrid shows the hybrids are transparent. The hybrids possess excellent optical transparency and can be used in protecting coating. (C) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.