Pyrolysis and flammability properties of novolac/graphite nanocomposites

Nano-graphite shows good potential as flame retardant because upon pyrolysis of polymer, the nano-crystal graphite reinforced phenolic resin can be converted into a uniform carbon layer, which may lead to significantly higher resistance to oxidation compared to neat phenolic resin. Formation of this carbon layer on char formed from the pyrolysis of the nanocomposite at high temperature not only enhances the char mechanical strength, but also acts as secondary protection layer to protect the lower remained nanocomposite.