Effects of flame-retardant flax-fiber on enhancing performance of the rigid polyurethane foams

The original flax fibers (FF) and the modified FFs were subjected to the treatment with the flame retardant, were used to improve the performance of rigid polyurethane foams (RPUF). The mechanical properties of composites were evaluated by compressive strength test, torsion strength test, and shear stress test. The fire characteristics (smoke and heat production) were studied using cone calorimeter. And the thermal decomposition and flammable properties were further evaluated using thermogravimetric analysis and limiting oxygen index. The results showed that the FF could improve the mechanical properties of RPUF and had a good prospect in reducing the fire hazard for RPUF. (c) 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46436.