A functional lignin-based nanofiller for flame-retardant blend.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Sustainable Chemistry

Background:

• Lignin offers sustainable, aromatic flame retardants but faces challenges in compatibility and efficiency.
• Current flame retardants often rely on non-renewable resources and can pose environmental concerns.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a green, functional lignin-based nanofiller for improved flame retardancy in polymers.
• To evaluate the performance of lignin-diethylenetriamine/red phosphorus nanoparticles (Lignin-N-P NPs) when blended with acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) copolymers.

Main Methods:

• Chemical modification and co-precipitation were used to synthesize Lignin-N-P NPs.
• Lignin-N-P NPs were blended with ABS to create composite materials.
• The physical, chemical, mechanical, and flame retardant properties of the blends were analyzed.

Main Results:

• The Lignin-N-P NPs/ABS blend demonstrated acceptable processability and mechanical properties.
• Significant improvements in thermal stability and fire performance were observed.
• Peak heat release rate and total heat released per unit area decreased by 67.8% and 77.5%, respectively.

Conclusions:

• Lignin-N-P NPs are effective flame retardants for ABS, offering enhanced fire safety.
• This research paves the way for novel lignin-based materials and flame retardant designs.
• The developed nanofiller addresses limitations of traditional flame retardants through sustainable sourcing and improved performance.