Nano-Structured Flame Retardant Replacement for PentaBDE

Unregulated dioxin-like polybrominated diphenyl ether (PBDE), in particular pentaBDE, commonly used as a fire retardant in furniture foam and plastic consumer goods, is spreading rapidly in the environment with levels in the human system doubling every 5 years. Although many European countries already have banned the use of pentaDBE in foams, there is a growing public demand in the United States to replace this chemical with more environmentally benign flame retardants. In this Phase I effort, Materials Modifications, Inc. (MMI) proposes to employ the principles of nanotechnology to prepare a potent halogen-free, fire retardant additive that may be added to thermosetting plastics and foams to impart fire resistance to them without affecting the inherent properties of the plastics. MMI’s in-house experience and expertise with nanomaterials will be employed in preparing the nanohybrid composite, and Phase I will prove the ability of the fire retardant additive in conferring fire resistance to polyurethane. The nanohybrid fire resistant additive proposed will serve to overcome the shortcomings of existing materials such as toxic/halogenated compounds and chemicals that require high loading. The proposed synergy of nanochemistry and coating technology will unleash a plethora of new applications in addition to fine-tuning the existing expertise in the fields of fire management and control.