Why is aluminum hydroxide suitable as a flame-retardant filler?

Aluminum hydroxide used as a flame retardant in domestic and international markets is primarily alpha-Al(OH)₃. It typically appears as a white powder with stable physical and chemical properties, heat resistance, and non-hygroscopicity.

Aluminum Hydroxide Flame Retardant

Why Aluminum Hydroxide Can Serve as a Flame Retardant Filler

1. Properties of Aluminum Hydroxide

Aluminum hydroxide used as a flame retardant in domestic and international markets is primarily alpha-Al(OH)₃. It typically appears as a white powder with stable physical and chemical properties, heat resistance, and non-hygroscopicity. The particle size of aluminum hydroxide flame retardant can be processed as needed. It is non-toxic and harmless, maintaining its whiteness when mature. Upon heating, it reacts to form aluminum oxide and water.

Why is Aluminum Hydroxide the Best Flame Retardant Filler?

(Photo from the internet)

2. Flame Retardant Mechanism of Aluminum Hydroxide

The flame retardant mechanism of aluminum hydroxide is relatively complex, comprising multiple mechanisms including:

1) Endothermic Reaction

Heat causes aluminum hydroxide to decompose into aluminum oxide and water, an endothermic reaction.

This process not only absorbs heat, delaying polymer combustion, but also releases water vapor that dilutes combustible gases and oxygen while participating in condensation reactions.

2) Dilution Effect

The water vapor mentioned in 1) not only dilutes combustible gases and oxygen, but aluminum hydroxide also has a packing effect. It reduces the polymer density per unit volume, and the packed aluminum hydroxide itself acts as a diluent.

3) Service Range

The aluminum oxide generated by the reaction forms a flame-retardant barrier with other carbonized materials, inhibiting flame spread.

4) Carbonization

Under combustion conditions, the flame retardant generates highly dehydrating substances. The plastic undergoes carbonization, making it less prone to producing combustible volatiles and preventing flame propagation.

3. Advantages of Aluminum Hydroxide as a Flame Retardant

1) Significant cooling effect due to endothermic reaction process

Aluminum hydroxide flame retardant

Magnesium hydroxide adversely affects electrical properties and is less suitable than aluminum hydroxide.

2) Environmentally friendly, safe, and non-toxic gas generation during flame retardation.

3) Reinforcing effect on products like rubber.

Aluminum hydroxide particle size ranges down to near-nanoscale (diameter

4) Abundant resources

Aluminum hydroxide preparation and processing technology is relatively mature, making it readily available and cost-effective. Aluminum hydroxide flame retardant

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