Porous silica nanoparticles: A potential flame-retardant additive for building and construction materials

Important results from the project

Engineered nanomaterials for flame retardant application are attractive, and silica is a new type of additives for polymers. INFINGENT has developed a nanotechnology-based flame retardant as a potential additive to high-performance polymers/plastics. The proposed project is to evaluate the flame retardant properties of Infingent-silica and develop a technology proof of a particular polymer type.

Expected long term effects

As a non-halogenated flame retardant and self-insulation of the amorphous structure, the Infingent-silica shows highly efficient to fire insulation. The polymer composites made with silica have passed V0 rating of the standard Test for Safety of Flammability of Plastic Materials (even at extremely low amounts of Infingent-silica). The result shows that the technology is in the forefront and INFINGENT is now capable of highlighting the technology with various industries. The results obtained can provide a reference of the technology to customers.

Approach and implementation

The overall project designed in such a way that the results should validate the effect of silica in reducing the flame without seriously compromising the product physical and mechanical properties. A careful selection of polymer composite of high in demand, right silica properties, and standard test method for evaluating flammability are of particular concern and were taken care of with the help of an external partner. Understanding of the product formulation was crucial to render the flame retardant properties of silica and hence optimized to obtain a V0 rating of the product.