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Effective Flame-Retardant Coatings for Expanded Polystyrene Foam: A Study Based on Deep Eutectic Solvent and Graphene
Vijay Kumar Vishvakarma1,2, Gyanendra Kumar3, Sandeep Kumar2
1Delhi School of Skill Enhancement & Entrepreneurship Development, Institution of Eminence, University of Delhi, New Delhi 110007, India.
ACS Omega
|June 23, 2025
Summary
Green flame-retardant coatings using deep eutectic solvents (DES) and graphene oxide (GO) composites significantly enhance expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam safety. These eco-friendly coatings improve fire resistance and thermal stability for sustainable material applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Fire Safety Engineering
Background:
- Expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam offers desirable properties but suffers from high flammability, posing safety concerns.
- Developing effective and environmentally friendly flame retardants for EPS is crucial for enhancing safety in various applications.
- Graphene oxide (GO) and deep eutectic solvents (DES) are emerging materials with potential flame-retardant properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop innovative green flame-retardant coatings for EPS foam using DES and DES-GO composites.
- To evaluate the flame-retardant performance, mechanical integrity, thermal stability, adhesion, and water resistance of the developed coatings.
- To investigate the formation mechanisms and adhesion behavior of DES and DES-GO composites using computational methods.
Main Methods:
- Synthesis of graphene oxide (GO) via an improved Hummers method.
- Preparation of deep eutectic solvents (DES) through simple mixing.
- Fabrication of DES-GO composite materials for flame-retardant coatings.
- Characterization of coating properties including mechanical integrity, thermal stability, adhesion, and water resistance.
- Computational analysis using density functional theory (DFT) and annealing molecular dynamics simulations.
Main Results:
- DES and DES-GO composites demonstrated exceptional flame-retardant performance by forming stable carbonaceous layers.
- Significant suppression of heat and smoke generation during combustion was observed.
- Vertical flammability tests and limiting oxygen index measurements confirmed enhanced flame resistance of EPS foam.
- DFT and molecular dynamics simulations provided insights into material formation and adhesion mechanisms.
Conclusions:
- The developed green flame-retardant coatings based on DES and DES-GO composites offer a promising solution for improving the fire safety of EPS foam.
- These eco-friendly coatings enhance flame resistance while maintaining desirable material properties.
- This research contributes to advancements in fire safety technology with a focus on environmental sustainability.
