Development of new plastics with reduced flammability and reduced emission of toxic smokes during combustion to be used in mining excavations

Project manager: Wojciech Zatorski Ph.D. (Eng.)

Project summary:

The aim of the project was to develop new systems of plastic materials with reduced flammability and emission of toxic smokes during combustion or pyrolysis in elevated temperatures to be used in mining excavations. Plastics used in practice in mining excavations were selected for the study; foam plastics were focused on as they are more flammable. Self-extinguishing and surface flammability was determined. A cone calorimeter was used to test the behaviour of plastics in fire. On the basis of a full characteristic of combustion of selected plastics the degree of flammability of polymers was assessed with the oxygen index of surface flammability and a cone calorimeter with the use of selected compounds (fire retardants) that reduce flammability. Classic halogen free fire retardants and nanoparticles were used in the synthesis of the selected plastics.After all the results of the flammability tests had been analysed, which included determining the amount of emitted smokes, five compositions were identified: they have the best fire safety parameters. A study of implementation of the technology was prepared, too.

Unit: Department of Chemical and Aerosol Hazards

Duration: 01.01.2008 – 30.12.2010