Heat transport, polymer flammability

To prepare the FRP composite, the respective fiber is embedded in a polymer matrix mostly thermoset or thermoplastic resins. The role of the matrix is (i) to bind the fibers together, (ii) to transfer stresses between fibers, and (iii) to protect them against environmental attack and damage due to mechanical abrasion. The matrix also controls the processability, the maximum service temperatures, as well as the flammability and corrosion resistance of FRP. Most FRPs are made in order to improve mechanical performances such as elastic properties (modulus of elasticity) and ultimate properties (strength, toughness). To some extent and based on the choice of constituents, preparation of composites makes it also possible to tailor other physical properties, such as electrical conductivity, mass transport properties, heat conduction, etc. [49]. 

The comprehensive flame retardation of polymer-clay nanocomposite materials was reported by Dr. Jeff Gilman and others at NIST [7]. They disclosed that both delaminated and intercalated nanoclays improve the flammability properties of polymer-layered silicate (clay) nanocomposites. In the study of the flame retardant effect of the nanodispersed clays, XRD and TEM analysis identified a nanoreinforced protective silicate/carbon-like high-performance char from the combustion residue that provided a physical mechanism of flammability control. The report also disclosed that The nanocomposite structure of the char appears to enhance the performance of the char layer. This char may act as an insulation and mass transport barrier showing the escape of the volatile products generated as the polymer decomposes. Cone calorimetry was used to study the flame retardation. The HRRs (heat release rates) of thermoplastic and thermoset polymer-layered silicate nanocomposites are reduced by 40% to 60% in delaminated or intercalated nanocomposites containing a silicate mass fraction of only 2% to 6%. On the basis of their expertise and experience in plastic flammability, they concluded that polymer-clay nanocomposites are very promising new flame-retarding polymers. In addition, they predict that the addition... 

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