A novel exploration of metal–organic frameworks in flame-retardant epoxy composites

In this work, a series of transition metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) were prepared through self-assembly of organic bridging ligands and transition metal ions. The structure of MOFs samples was analyzed by XRD, FTIR, TG, and TEM. The influences of MOFs on flame resistance, toxicity reduction, and smoke suppression of epoxy were explored in detail. The findings presented that low addition amount of MOFs had a positive effect on decreasing the fire hazards of epoxy. Loading of 2 mass% MOFs into epoxy led to the decrease in thermal degradation rate and increase in char yields. Meanwhile, the values of peak heat release rate, total heat release, and average mass loss rate of epoxy composites were cut down effectively, in comparison with neat epoxy. Moreover, the remarkable decrease in smoke production rate, total smoke production, and CO, CO2 yield could be provided by cone calorimeter test. The char residues after cone calorimeter test were investigated by SEM and Raman spectra, and the flame-retardant mechanism was discussed.