Interactions between kaolinite and phosphinate-based flame retardant in Polyamide 6

The interactions between kaolinite and a commercially available phosphinate-based flame retardant (Exolit® OP1311) were evaluated as flame retardant systems in Polyamide 6 (PA6). The thermal degradation and flammability of PA6 composites were studied by TGA and cone calorimeter tests. Characterizations were conducted using FTIR, EDX and XRD. Cone calorimeter results showed a reduction in peak heat release rate (pHRR) as a function of filler loading and type with a greater reduction for OP1311 containing composites. Interestingly, OP1311 can be partially substituted by kaolinite without detrimental effect on peak of release rate (pHRR) measured by cone calorimeter. FTIR, EDX and XRD analysis of cone calorimeter residues showed that kaolinite may trap some phosphorous compounds in condensed phase leading to the formation of a glassy structure on sample residue. To assess possible interactions between kaolinite and phosphinate, a controlled thermal degradation was carried out on kaolinite, OP1311 and kaolinite/OP1311 (50:50) blends. The residues were analyzed by EDX and XRD. Results showed that almost all phosphorous present in the initial sample remains in residue for Kaolinite/OP1311 blend versus only about 60% for OP1311 alone. Also, XRD results showed that during combustion, new crystalline phases can be formed in the sample when kaolinite is combined with OP1311. These results suggest that some interactions between both components may occur and could explain the observed fire behavior of the composites containing kaolinite and phosphinate.