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Designed for Molecular Recycling: A Lignin-Derived Semi-aromatic Biobased Polymer
Published on: November 30, 2020
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Replacing Harmful Flame Retardants with Biodegradable Starch-Based Materials in Polyethylene Formulations
Bárbara O Carvalho1, Luís P C Gonçalves1, Patrícia V Mendonça1
1Centre for Mechanical Engineering, Materials, and Processes, Advanced Production and Intelligent Systems (ARISE), Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Coimbra, Rua Sílvio Lima-Polo II, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal.
Polymers
|October 28, 2023
Summary
This study introduces biodegradable starch-based flame retardants as a safer alternative to toxic additives in polymers. These natural flame retardants maintain safety standards while reducing environmental impact.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Fire Safety Engineering
Background:
- Polymers often require toxic flame retardants due to flammability.
- Developing safer, biodegradable alternatives is crucial for environmental and health reasons.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prepare and incorporate biodegradable starch-based flame retardants into low-density polyethylene (LDPE).
- To evaluate the fire performance of these novel blends compared to commercial flame retardants.
Main Methods:
- Thermoplastic starch (TPS) was prepared using glycerol/water or glycerol/water/choline phytate.
- LDPE/TPS blends were created via melt blending with a compatibilizer.
- Fire behavior was assessed using limiting oxygen index (LOI), cone calorimetry, and UL 94 tests.
Main Results:
- Starch-based flame retardants partially or fully replaced commercial ones, maintaining LOI ≈ 28%.
- Choline phytate enhanced charring and fire retardancy, reducing fire growth index by 43%.
- Blends with TPS achieved V2 rating, while commercial flame retardant blends were rated V0.
Conclusions:
- Biodegradable starch-based flame retardants show significant potential as safe and effective alternatives.
- These natural flame retardants can reduce cost and enhance the safety of polymer materials.
- Choline phytate inclusion further improves the fire retardant properties of starch-based materials.
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