Erschienen in:
Journal of Polymer Science Part A: Polymer Chemistry, 26 (1988) 8, Seite 2113-2127
Sprache:
Englisch
DOI:
10.1002/pola.1988.080260810
ISSN:
0887-624X;
1099-0518
Entstehung:
Anmerkungen:
Beschreibung:
AbstractThe mechanism of action of aromatic sulfonates as flame retardant (FR) agents on poly(bisphenol‐A carbonate) (PC) has been investigated. These compounds are capable of inducing a self‐extinguence in PC even when present in very low amounts (0.2–1%). Thermogravimetric and flash pyrolysis–GC–MS data show the thermal degradation rate of PC enhanced, and the distribution of the volatile pyrolysis products was modified by these additives. Oxygen Index (OI) and Nitrous Oxide Index (NOI) measurements indicate a FR condensed‐phase mechanism of these additives. Traces of polymer surface temperature against time, measured under forced flame conditions, show that the expanded carbon layer formed in the combustion of polycarbonate–aromatic sulfonate blends produces a heat insulating effect toward the undecomposed bulk. The overall evidence leads us to conclude that aromatic sulfonates cause the flame extinguishment in polycarbonate by an intumescent phenomenon.