Thermal degradation and flame retardancy properties of ABS/lignin: Effects of lignin content and reactive compatibilization

► Lignin can slow the degradation process and increase the char residue of ABS. ► Addition of 20% lignin into ABS can reduce the peak heat release rate by ∼32%. ► Reactive compatibilization can further decrease the flammability of ABS resin. ► Better dispersion of lignin results in the much more intact char layer. ► The better barrier effects are responsible of the improved flame retardancy.