Effect of different zeolitic imidazolate frameworks nanoparticle‐modified β‐FeOOH rods on flame retardancy and smoke suppression of epoxy resin

Abstract

Abstract A simple method was used to load zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) onto β‐FeOOH nanorods to ameliorate the flame retardancy and smoke suppression of epoxy resin (EP). The morphology and structure of ZIF‐8‐β‐FeOOH (Z8Fe) and ZIF‐67‐β‐FeOOH (Z67Fe) nano hybrids were systematically characterized by field emission scanning electron microscope, Fourier transform infrared and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) spectra, which proved the successful preparation of the hybrids. 3 wt% of Z8Fe and Z67Fe were added to the EP matrix, and their combustion properties were studied, respectively. The results showed that the composites' limiting oxygen index values were ameliorated to 27.3% and 28.1%, respectively. Their UL94 flame retardant rating was improved, their peak heat release rate and total heat release were reduced, their flame retardant performance was considerably improved, and their generation of toxic smoke was significantly suppressed. Further, through X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, XRD and laser Raman spectroscopy analysis of the char residue, their potential mechanism of flame retardancy and smoke suppression were studied.