Self-assembly of zinc hydroxystannate on amorphous hydrous TiO2 solid sphere for enhancing fire safety of epoxy resin

Zinc hydroxystannate (ZHS) was fabricated on the surface of amorphous hydrous TiO2 solid spheres (AHTSS) via a layer-by-layer method for improving the fire safety of epoxy resin. AHTSS@PEI@ZHS was prepared by self-assembly of AHTSS, PEI and ZHS. The well-organized fabrication process was proved by TEM, XPS, XRD and SEM tests. TG results illustrated that the incorporation of AHTSS@PEI@ZHS show a higher residue compared with the addition of AHTSS or ZHS alone. In addition, AHTSS@PEI@ZHS filled EP composites exhibits improved flame retardancy and smoke suppression properties evaluated by cone calorimeter test. TG-IR results also indicated that the catalytic labyrinth structure of AHTSS@PEI@ZHS can effectively decrease the permeation of volatile organic compounds, thereby improving the fire safety of EP resin.