# Influence of the Synergistic System of Carbon-Based Fillers with Melamine Polyphosphate on the Thermal Properties and Fire Hazard of Flexible Polyurethane Foams

## TL;DR

This study shows how combining carbon-based materials with melamine polyphosphate can make flexible polyurethane foams less flammable and reduce fire risks.

## Contribution

A novel synergistic system using carbon-based fillers and melamine polyphosphate is introduced to significantly reduce fire hazards in polyurethane foams.

## Key findings

- The synergistic system of carbon-based fillers and melamine polyphosphate significantly reduced the fire hazard of flexible polyurethane foams.
- The EG5-MPP system enabled the formation of self-extinguishing materials.
- Thermogravimetric and calorimetric analyses confirmed improved thermal stability and reduced flammability.

## Abstract

In the article we investigated the effectiveness of a synergistic system designed to reduce the fire hazard of flexible polyurethane (PUR) foams. The examined system consisted of a carbon-based filler graphene (G), carbon nanotubes (CNTs), or expanded graphite (EG) combined with melamine polyphosphate (MPP). The investigated polyurethane foams (PUR) were synthesized at room temperature via a polycondensation reaction between a polyol and an isocyanate, with an OH: NCO molar ratio of 2:1. Both the carbon fillers and melamine polyphosphate were homogeneously dispersed within the polyol component. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), cone calorimetry, and microcalorimetry were used to evaluate the influence of the fillers on the thermal stability and flammability of the PUR foams. The toxicity of the gaseous products was assessed using a coupled TG-gas analysis system, while the optical density of the evolved gases was determined using a Smoke Density Chamber (SDC). The obtained results demonstrated that the applied synergistic carbon-phosphorus filler system significantly reduced the fire hazard of the tested PUR foams. In particular, the EG5-MPP system enabled the formation of self-extinguishing materials.