Inorganic flame retardant fillers, due to their characteristics such as non-toxicity, low or smoke-free emissions, minimal toxicity of combustion products, non-migration, no leaching, environmental friendliness, permanent flame retardancy, and low cost, align with the prevailing trend of flame retardants towards environmentally friendly development, making them a focal point in the advancement of flame retardant technology. However, challenges arise when using inorganic flame retardant fillers, such as aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, etc., as their compatibility with high polymers is often suboptimal. Additionally, to meet specified flame retardancy requirements, a substantial amount of these fillers needs to be added, significantly impacting the mechanical and processing properties of the materials.
Abundant research indicates that the key to overcoming these challenges lies in improving the fineness of the fillers and enhancing their compatibility and adhesion with high polymer substrates. Techniques primarily focus on surface modification of ultrafine fillers to enhance their physicochemical properties, thereby improving compatibility and dispersibility within the matrix-whether it be organic polymers or resins-and ultimately elevating the material's mechanical strength and overall performance.
The technological approaches to enhance compatibility and adhesion with high polymer substrates predominantly involve surface modification of ultrafine fillers. This modification aims to refine the physical and chemical characteristics of the filler's surface, fostering better compatibility with the matrix, including organic polymers or resins, and improving dispersibility within the organic matrix. The ultimate goal is to enhance the material's mechanical strength and comprehensive performance.
By addressing the issues related to compatibility and adhesion between inorganic flame retardant fillers and high polymers, these modified ultrafine fillers can significantly mitigate the negative impacts on mechanical and processing properties. Consequently, this advancement contributes to the broader adoption of inorganic flame retardant fillers in various applications, fostering a more sustainable and environmentally friendly direction in flame retardant technology.
In conclusion, the evolving landscape of flame retardant technology is marked by a shift towards inorganic fillers, driven by their eco-friendly attributes. Overcoming challenges related to compatibility and ensuring optimal performance involves innovative approaches such as surface modification of ultrafine fillers, paving the way for enhanced flame retardancy without compromising the mechanical and processing properties of the materials. This paradigm shift aligns with the broader environmental objectives and positions inorganic flame retardant fillers as a pivotal aspect of future flame retardant developments.
