New ARBOFILL composites: preparation and characterization

ABSTRACT

Novel formulations comprising Arbofill (AR), two flame retardants and clay, were obtained through melt blending. An evaluation of the influence of each filler was performed using thermal analysis, Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray powder diffraction spectroscopy (XRD), mechanical and fire testing. It was found that the impact strength of the Arbofill matrix increased upon the addition of the filler. SEM micrographs evidenced that composites comprising flame retardants exhibited enhanced interfacial adhesion between the components when the clay was added. The presence of the fillers used led to an increase in thermal stability, as evaluated by the temperature corresponding to 5% mass loss (T5%). The best flame resistance and highest char concentration after thermal degradation were registered for the composite comprising all the fillers. All the developed formulations presented better flame-retardant properties, as compared to the AR matrix. The properties achieved recommend the investigated composites for applications in the electrical and furniture industry.

KEYWORDS:

• Arbofill
• organoclay
• composites
• flame retardance
• mechanical properties
• thermal properties

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Iuliana Spiridon

Dr. Iuliana Spiridon - 1st author, Department of Natural Polymers, “Petru Poni” Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Iasi, Romania

Cristian-Dragos Varganici

Dr. Cristian-Dragos Varganici - 2nd author, Petru Poni” Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Iasi, Romania

Ana–Maria Resmerita

Dr. Ana–Maria Resmerita - 3^rd author, Petru Poni” Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, Iasi, Romania

Tudor Mihai Simionescu

Ph. Tudor Mihai Simionescu - 4^th author, Faculty of Material Science and Engineering, “Gheorghe Asachi” Technical University, Iasi, Romania