Abstract
Magnesium hydroxide (MDH) particles are often used as fillers to improve the flame retardancy of polymers. However, achieving the balance between the enhanced fire resistance and reduced mechanical properties, especially toughness, is still a challenge to the composite community. In this study, the effect of the particle size and silane surface modification of MDH particles on the flame retardant, thermal, and mechanical properties of epoxy was studied. Both nano- and micro-sized MDH particles were modified by a silanization reaction with γ-aminopropyltrietoxysilane in an aqueous solution and filled into epoxy matrix by a high-shear mixer and a three-roll mill. Results show that nano-MDH filled epoxy composites yielded better mechanical properties than their micro-MDH filled counterparts. Furthermore, the adhesion between nano-sized MDH and the matrix was improved by the silane surface modification. When comparing the flame retardant properties, enhancements in heat release rates and total heat released were observed for MDH filled epoxy composites.








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Acknowledgements
The authors wish to thank the Finnish Funding Agency for Technology and Innovation and the Ministry of Science and Technology of China (Grant No. 2008DFA51220) for their joint financial support. Mrs. Sinikka Pohjonen, Mr. Mikko Salonen, and Mr. Antti Nikkola are also gratefully acknowledged for their help in the experiments.
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Suihkonen, R., Nevalainen, K., Orell, O. et al. Performance of epoxy filled with nano- and micro-sized Magnesium hydroxide. J Mater Sci 47, 1480–1488 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10853-011-5933-6
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10853-011-5933-6
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