Optimizing the application of brucite powder (Mg(OH)_2) in epoxy resin-based flame retardant materials

This study focuses on the optimization of the application of brucite powder, an environmentally friendly inorganic additive, in epoxy resin systems, especially the enhancement of its flame retardant properties and the maintenance of the mechanical properties of the matrix. Through a detailed analysis of the microstructural characteristics of brucite powder, including particle size, crystal morphology and surface chemical modification, this study reveals how these factors work together to affect the flame retardant efficiency and overall performance of the final composite material.

Summary of core findings:

Particle size control: Nanoscale brucite powder, with its high specific surface area characteristics, disperses more evenly in the resin, builds a tighter flame retardant barrier, and significantly improves flame retardant performance. The study also pointed out that reasonable control of particle size to avoid excessive agglomeration is the key to maintaining material processing performance. The role of crystal morphology: Specific crystal morphology, especially hexagonal sheet-like brucite powder, not only forms an effective insulation and oxygen barrier during combustion, but also shows a positive effect on enhancing the physical and mechanical strength of the resin, especially in smoke suppression and heat transfer resistance. Surface modification strategy: Organic silicon, stearic acid and other substances are used to modify the surface of brucite powder, effectively improving its dispersion uniformity in epoxy resin, reducing agglomeration tendency, enhancing interfacial adhesion, and further promoting the leap of flame retardant performance. Thermal decomposition behavior and stability: The decomposition characteristics of brucite powder at high temperatures, namely the cooling effect of releasing water vapor and the oxygen blocking effect of the generated MgO layer, are crucial for the flame retardant mechanism. The optimized morphology design is beneficial for regulating its thermal decomposition rate and thermal stability, thereby accurately regulating the flame retardant efficiency and thermal stability of the resin. Summary and Outlook: This study emphasizes that by finely regulating the physical and chemical properties of brucite powder, it is possible to maintain and even enhance the inherent mechanical advantages of epoxy resin while ensuring a significant improvement in flame retardant performance, achieving a balance of performance optimization. The future research direction will focus on deepening the morphology customization technology and surface modification process of brucite powder, aiming to open up a broader path for the development of new, high-performance, and environmentally friendly flame retardant composite materials, and provide technological support and innovative ideas for industry applications.