Enhancing Flame Retardancy and Thermal Insulation Performance of Silicone Rubber Composites Using Silicon Carbide

Abstract This study focuses on modifying silicone rubber using silicon carbide (SiC) to enhance the flame retardancy and thermal insulation properties of the composites. The study characterizes the thermal stability, mechanical properties, and flame retardancy of the composite materials. The results demonstrate the effective improvement in thermal stability achieved by incorporating SiC into the silicone rubber composites. At a SiC addition level of 6 wt.%, the composite material shows optimal thermal stability with an initial decomposition temperature of 487°C, which is 84°C higher compared to the pure matrix. Additionally, the SiC/SR composites system exhibits a char yield of 72.13% at 900°C, representing an approximately 9% increase compared to the pure SR matrix. Simultaneously, the incorporation of SiC significantly enhances the flame retardancy of silicone rubber. At a SiC addition level of 10 wt.%, the LOI (Limiting Oxygen Index) value increases by 10.5% to reach 30.4%, surpassing the non-additive sample. Moreover, the UL-94 classification of the composite material is V-0, meeting the standard for flame retardant materials.