What are the main chemical classifications of textile flame retardants?

The main chemical classifications of textile flame retardants include the following:

Halogen flame retardant: This is the most widely used type of fabric flame retardant, and its main component is brominated aromatic hydrocarbon compounds. It can react with the free radicals in the combustion products when the fabric burns, inhibiting the combustion chain reaction, thereby achieving the flame retardant effect. However, this type of flame retardant has problems of environmental pollution and toxicity.

Nitrogen-based flame retardant: This is an environmentally friendly fabric flame retardant whose main component is nitrogen-containing compounds. It acts as a flame retardant by absorbing the heat and free radicals released during the combustion process and preventing the combustion chain reaction from proceeding. Compared with halogen flame retardants, its flame retardant performance is slightly inferior, but its environmental friendliness and toxicity are lower.

Phosphorus flame retardant: Phosphorus flame retardant is a commonly used fabric flame retardant, its main component is phosphorus-containing compounds. During the combustion process, it can produce phosphoric anhydride or phosphoric acid, which promotes dehydration and carbonization of textiles and prevents or reduces the generation of flammable gases. In addition, phosphoric anhydride forms a glass-like melt when pyrolyzed and covers the fabric, prompting its oxidation to generate carbon dioxide, which acts as a flame retardant.

There are also silicone flame retardants, the main components of which are high molecular polymers such as melamine formaldehyde resin, and inorganic flame retardants, such as borate and antimony salts and other metal oxides. These flame retardants have good thermal stability and chemical inertness, have no damaging effect on fibers, and are low in price.

There are various chemical classifications of textile flame retardants, and each flame retardant has its own unique flame retardant mechanism and applicable scenarios. When choosing to use, factors such as the material, use, flame retardant performance requirements, environmental protection and safety of the fabric need to be comprehensively considered.