Methyl methacrylate combustion

In poly(ethylene terephthalate) (14—16) and poly(methyl methacrylate) (17—19), the mechanism of action of phosphoms flame retardants is at least partly attributable to a decrease in the amount of combustible volatiles and a corresponding increase in nonvolatile residue (char). In poly(methyl methacrylate), the phosphoms flame retardant appears to cause an initial cross-linking through anhydride linkages (19). 

A number of thermoplastics undergo depolymerisation on heating. These include poly(styrene), poly(methyl methacrylate), and poly(oxymethylene). Such depolymerisation will occur regardless of the prevailing oxygen concentration and under well aerated conditions will provide a ready source of fuel for sustained combustion. 

Methyl methacrylate combusted In a beaker. This accident was the r ult of the compound being in contact with grains of benzoyl peroxide that were on the beaker walls. 

Among the plastics which in addition to being combustible ingredients of these mixtures serve also as binders imparting mechanical strength to the charges, the following substances have recently become of considerable interest methyl methacrylate, polystyrene. 

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