TiO2/SiO2/kaolinite hybrid filler to improve the flame retardancy, smoke suppression and anti-aging characteristics of epoxy resin

A multi-functional kaolinite-based compound (AST@Kaol) was prepared by successive loading of TiO 2 and SiO 2 to the surface of metakaolinite (Kaol), followed by reaction with γ-aminopropyl triethoxysilane (APTES). The hybrid was then introduced to epoxy resin (EP) to enhance flame retardancy, smoke suppression and anti-aging properties. The results demonstrated the presence of only 3 wt% AST@Kaol can increase the value of limit oxygen index (LOI) of EP composite to 27.3% from 25.3% of neat EP, as well as decrease the value of heat release rate , total smoke release and the smoke density by 36.9, 14.3 and 19.9%, respectively, compared to neat EP. Besides, the thermal stability and thermal oxidative resistance of EP composites was enhanced. The mechanism of fire retardancy, anti-ageing and mechanical of the EP composite containing AST@Kaol was also speculated.