Flame retardancy and wear resistance of epoxy composites modified by whisker-shaped nickel phyllosilicate and microencapsulated ammonium polyphosphate

Abstract

Whisker-shaped nickel phyllosilicate (NiPS) was synthesized using rod-like nickel-based metal–organic frameworks as the hard templates, and highly efficient flame retardant and wear resistant EP composites were prepared by synergizing with microencapsulated ammonium polyphosphate (MFAPP). The research results indicated that at a total addition amount of 8 wt% and a mass ratio of 2 : 5 for NiPS to MFAPP, the limiting oxygen index of the EP composite was 28.2%, which achieved the V-0 rating in the UL-94 standard. Meanwhile, the peak of heat release rate and total heat release was reduced by 33.9% and 22%, respectively, compared with pure EP. The synergistic system of NiPS and MFAPP promoted the formation of high-quality char layer, preventing the diffusion of heat, oxygen, and combustible gases effectively during combustion of the EP composite. Dry friction test showed that the wear rate of the EP composite was 0.847 × 10⁻⁵ mm³ N⁻¹ m⁻¹, which was 87.9% lower than pure EP, indicating a significant improvement in wear resistance. This study provided a promising method for the preparation of high performance epoxy composites with excellent flame retardancy and wear resistance.