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Innovative hybrid materials enhance waterborne fire retardant coatings
A new study demonstrates the synergistic effects of Ni,Fe-MOF and DOPO-modified alginate fibres in waterborne intumescent fire retardant coatings. The approach significantly boosts flame retardancy, char strength and durability.
Waterborne intumescent fire retardant (IFR) coatings are gaining traction as environmentally friendly solutions to combat fire hazards. Researchers have now developed a novel hybrid material combining two-dimensional (2D) metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and chemically grafted organophosphorus flame retardants (DOPO) onto alginate fibres, achieving remarkable improvements in flame retardancy and mechanical stability.
The study employed a one-step hydrothermal process to synthesise Ni,Fe-MOF-loaded alginate fibres (ORF@Ni,Fe-MOF), which were further grafted with DOPO. When incorporated into waterborne IFR coatings, these hybrids acted as synergists, enhancing charring efficiency and fire resistance. The Ni,Fe-MOF nanosheets catalysed the carbonisation of alginate fibres during combustion, forming an intact char layer that effectively blocked oxygen and retarded exothermic reactions.
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Enhanced flame retardancy and char layer strength
Performance testing revealed significant improvements in fire resistance. Coatings with 2 wt% ORF@Ni,Fe-MOF@DOPO demonstrated optimal performance, achieving a backside temperature of 148.4 °C, an expansion ratio of 15.08 %, and a residual char yield of 32.6 %. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed the structural integrity of the char layer, indicating superior flame retardant properties.
The research highlights the potential of incorporating MOF and DOPO-modified fibres as advanced fillers in waterborne coatings, paving the way for more durable and efficient fire protection solutions in industrial applications.
Source: Li, H. et al., Enhanced fireproofing of waterborne intumescent fire retardant coatings by shaped carbonisation of alginate fibre reinforced with Ni,Fe-MOF combined with DOPO. Progress in Organic Coatings, 109888 (2025).
