Epoxy resin compositions containing liquid phosphorus flame retardants used in infusion technology

This study investigates the impact of the type and amount of liquid phosphorus flame retardant additive on the flammability and mechanical properties of epoxy compositions dedicated to the infusion process. To this purpose, epoxy resin (EP) compositions containing 10 and 20 wt % of liquid ammonium polyphosphate (APPL) and dimethyl methylphosphonate (DMMP) were obtained. Mechanical properties and flame resistance of obtained epoxy compositions were determined in terms of their use as a matrix in laminate infusion technology. Based on the results obtained, it was found, that the flame resistance increases, while the mechanical properties decreases with flame retardant loading. The best flame resistance results were obtained for a composite containing 20 wt % APPL: limiting oxygen index LOI = 23.9% instead of 19.8% – EP, peak of heat release rate pHRR = 427.3 kW/m2 instead of 1046.3 kW/m2 – EP.