Self-assembly of exfoliated molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) nanosheets and layered double hydroxide (LDH): Towards reducing fire hazards of epoxy

In present study, LDH/MoS2 hybrids were facilely prepared by self-assembly of exfoliated MoS2 nanosheets and LDH via electrostatic force. The structure and morphology of the LDH/MoS2 hybrids were characterized and then introduced into epoxy for reducing its fire hazards. Compared with single MoS2, LDH/MoS2 hybrids showed a more homogeneous dispersion in the epoxy matrix and no obvious agglomerates were observed. Compared with MoS2, the addition of LDH/MoS2 hybrids endowed more excellent fire resistance to epoxy matrix, which was reflected by the significantly reduced peak heat release rate, total heat release and total smoke production. A rational flame retardant mode of action for LDH/MoS2 hybrids was proposed based on the analysis of pyrolysis fragments and char residues.