Factors effecting. the performance of montmorillonite/magnesium hydroxide/poly(propylene) ternary composites, 1 - Flame retardation and thermal stability

A two-level factorial experimental design was used to examine the combined effects of o-MMT gallery polarity, surface modification of MDH, MA-g-PP and antioxidant addition, together with processing variables, on the burning behaviour and thermal stability of ternary composites based on PP, MDH and o-MMT. Regression equations highlighted the detrimental effect of o-MMT intercalants and possible improvement in the dispersion of o-MMT at higher MDH levels. A polar gallery environment (providing quat CH groups) led to increased char formation, and AAA-g-PP combined with o-MMT led to a higher oxidation onset temperature. Addition of o-MMT to PP/MDH composites can lead to a reduction in the level of MDH required for effective flame retardation.