Polyethylene is widely used in industry, yet its high flammability is considered a downside. To reduce its flammability, materials containing toxic elements such as antimony oxide and halogen and phosphorus compounds are commonly used. Scientists stress that this makes the search for safer alternatives urgent. Researchers have proposed a solution based on the use of safe components, specifically magnesium compounds. Tests have shown that adding these substances not only increases fire resistance but also slows down flame spread.
One of the main advantages of this development is the availability of main materials used in producing the additive, such as carbonates, which are produced on an industrial scale. The new additive’s advantages include compatibility with manufacturing processes that do not require expensive organic solvents and can be conducted in an aqueous environment, reducing environmental impact and production costs.
In addition to flame retardation, this new additive shows a positive effect on mechanical properties. Experiments have demonstrated that even with adding up to 10% of the new component, the material’s strength and flexibility not only remain intact but can actually improve. According to scientists, this makes the new material more competitive in the market compared to traditional counterparts. According to Kabardino-Balkarian State University, this new material is attracting significant interest from manufacturers of flame retardants and fire-resistant polymer materials.
