Core-shell structured ZnO nanorods enable flame-retardant, smoke suppressed and mechanically reinforced epoxy resin composites. (November 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Xia, Long; Wang, Xiaohong; Guo, Chuanluan; Miao, Zhongxi; Dai, Juguo; Li, Dongxu; Xu, Yiting; Luo, Weiang; Yuan, Conghui; Zeng, Birong; Dai, Lizong
• Is Part Of: Composites communications. Volume 35(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-11
• Subjects: Core-shell structure -- Flame-retardancy -- Smoke suppression -- Mechanical enhancement
• DOI: 10.1016/j.coco.2022.101311
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2452-2139

Abstract

Abstract: The engagement of bio-based materials in the manufacture of flame-retardant has gained particular popularity in the past few years due to the raising environmental concerns. In this paper, a multifunctional nanoparticle (ZnO@TPB) that can confer flame-retardancy, mechanical enhancement and smoke suppression to epoxy resin (EP) is designed by constructing a shell layer containing bio-based materials (tannic acid) on the surface of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanorods. It is found that 10 wt% of ZnO@TPB can impart good flame-retardancy (UL-94 V-0 grade, LOI = 31% and 26.1% reduction in total smoke production (TSP)) and good mechanical properties (Young's modulus increased by 22.86%, hardness increased by 50.0% and storage modulus increased by 92.29%) to the modified EP. These desirable properties come from the multiple synergistic effects between ZnO and TPB. This research offered a viable tactic for the manufacture of EP with a low fire hazard. Graphical abstract: Image 1 Highlights: Multifunctional nanoparticles (ZnO@TPB) were fabricated by a facile way. ZnO@TPB showed strong interface interaction and great dispersity with EP. ZnO@TPB could endow EP with great flame retardant and mechanical properties. Flame-retardant EP had good smoke suppression effect.