The key role of magnesium hydroxide in flame retardants

27 Mar.,2025

Heat absorption decomposition:Magnesium hydroxide decomposes when heated,absorbing a large amount of heat,thereby reducing the surface temperature of the material and slowing down the combustion process.

 

Magnesium hydroxide(Mg(OH)2)plays a crucial role in the field of flame retardants,and its unique chemical properties make it an ideal choice for flame retardant treatment of various materials.Specifically,as follows:

The key role of magnesium hydroxide in flame retardants

Reduce combustion temperature

Heat absorption decomposition:Magnesium hydroxide decomposes when heated,absorbing a large amount of heat,thereby reducing the surface temperature of the material and slowing down the combustion process.

Release of moisture:During the decomposition process,magnesium hydroxide releases bound water,which further absorbs heat and dilutes oxygen concentration,helping to suppress flames.

Form a protective layer

Generating high-temperature resistant magnesium oxide:Magnesium oxide(MgO)generated after the decomposition of magnesium hydroxide has excellent refractory properties and can form a protective wall on the surface of the material,isolating oxygen and combustibles,thereby preventing the spread of combustion.

Promote polymer carbonization:During the flame retardant process,magnesium hydroxide also helps to form a stable carbonization layer,which can effectively prevent further combustion of the polymer and provide additional protection.

Smoke and toxin suppression

Reduce smoke production:Magnesium hydroxide can significantly reduce smoke production during flame retardant processes,which is crucial for low visibility and inhalation of toxic smoke in fires.

Neutralizing harmful gases:Acidic gases(such as sulfur dioxide,nitrogen oxides,etc.)generated during combustion can be neutralized by magnesium hydroxide,reducing the harm of these toxic substances.

Improve material processing performance

High decomposition temperature:Magnesium hydroxide has a high thermal decomposition temperature(340-490℃)and is suitable for polymers processed at high temperatures.It will not decompose prematurely due to processing temperature,which will affect the flame retardant effect.

Uniform and fine particle size:Magnesium hydroxide has a small and evenly distributed particle size,which helps to improve its dispersibility and compatibility in polymers,reducing the negative impact on the mechanical properties of the material.

Environmentally friendly and non-toxic

Halogen free and non-toxic characteristics:Compared with traditional halogen containing flame retardants,magnesium hydroxide flame retardants do not produce toxic gases and corrosive halogen gases during the flame retardant process,which meets environmental protection requirements.

Durable safety:Magnesium hydroxide flame retardant has a long-lasting effect,is non-volatile,and can maintain flame retardant performance in various environments for a long time,providing people with long-term safety protection.

Wide application prospects

Multi field application:Magnesium hydroxide flame retardant is widely used in various industries such as plastics,rubber,chemicals,and building materials,including wires,cables,wood,paint,coatings,and more.

Research and improvement:With the advancement of technology,researchers are committed to developing high-purity and ultrafine particle size magnesium hydroxide flame retardants to improve their dispersibility and compatibility in polymer materials,further enhancing their flame retardant properties.

In summary,the key role of magnesium hydroxide in flame retardants is reflected in multiple aspects.Magnesium hydroxide has demonstrated its important role and potential in the field of flame retardant materials,from reducing combustion temperature,forming a protective layer,suppressing smoke and reducing toxicity,improving material processing performance,being environmentally friendly and non-toxic to its broad application prospects.