Influence of Sepiolite and Lignin as Potential Synergists on Flame Retardant Systems in Polylactide (PLA) and Polyurethane Elastomer (PUE)

A comparison of the influence of sepiolite and lignin as potential synergists for fire retardant (FR) systems based on ammonium polyphosphate (APP) has been carried out in polyurethane elastomer and polylactide. Different ratios of kraft lignin and sepiolite were tested in combination with APP in both polymers. The thermal stability and the fire behavior of the corresponding composites were evaluated using Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), a Pyrolysis Combustion Flow Calorimeter (PCFC) and Cone Calorimeter (CC). The mechanisms of flame retardancy imparted by APP and other components were investigated. Synergistic effects were highlighted but only for specific ratios between APP and sepiolite in polyurethane elastomer (PUE) and polylactide (PLA) on one hand, and between APP and lignin in PLA on the other hand. Sepiolite acts as char reinforcement but through the formation of new phosphorus compounds it is also able to form a protective layer. Conversely, only complementary effects on fire performance were noted for lignin in PUE due to a dramatic influence on thermal stability despite its action on char formation.