Synthesis of H2Ti2O3·H2O nanotubes and their effects on the flame retardancy of bamboo fiber/high-density polyethylene composites

H2Ti2O3·H2O nanotubes (TNTs) were prepared through hydrothermal synthesis and dispersed in bamboo fiber/HDPE (BH) composites to improve the flame retardancy of the composites. TEM observation showed that TiO2 particles were transformed into TNTs through hydrothermal treatment at 120 °C for 12 h in 8 M NaOH solution. Then, a cone calorimeter and a limiting oxygen index chamber were used to evaluate the effects of the TNTs on the flame retardancy of the BH composites. Results demonstrated that TNTs definitely improved the flame retardancy of BH composites by absorbing decomposition products from combustion due to its large specific area and tubular structure. Additionally, the TNTs reduced the free volume in the microzone, strengthened the molecular chain rigidity, and then contributed to the thermostability and flame retardancy of the BH composites.