Influence of the Structure of Acrylate Groups on the Flame Retardant Behavior of Ethylene Acrylate Copolymers Modified with Chalk and Silicone Elastomer

Abstract

This study treats the flame retardant effects of different ethylene acrylate copolymers used in a chalk and silicone elastomer system, specifically the flame retardant chemistry and behavior at lower temperatures. The presence or absence of ester pyrolysis, formation of ionomers or other crosslinks, viscosity, and the effects of these factors on the formation and stability of the intumescent structure formed during heating are discussed. The effects of the acrylate content and melt flow rate in flame retardant compounds based on ethylene butyl acrylate copolymer and ethylene ethyl acrylate copolymer are examined. Results of oxygen index, cone calorimetry (including visual observations), dripping, viscosity measurement, thermogravimetric analysis, and infrared spectroscopy are reported.