Flame- and Smoke-Retardant Polymer Systems.

The objective of the present program is to evaluate selected means for enhancing the fire performance of two polymeric materials that are widely used on board ship. These materials are molded polyvinyl chloride and Neoprene foam. The means for enhancing fire performance include 1 catalyzing char formation, 2 reducing the rate of volatile, combustible pyrolyzate formation with intumescent coatings or with ingredients that form insulating glass foams, and 3 catalyzing the oxidation of solid particulate smoke in the vapor phase during flaming combustion. Ferric and cupric acetylacetonate, used together was magnesium carbonate in plasticized PVS, reduced smoke optical density in laboratory tests with a NBS-Aminco chamber 42 to 68 at selected time points. These additives had no adverse effect on the ignitability. The concentrations of the gaseous combustion products were monitored continuously and simultaneously with smoke. The concentrations of NO sub x HCl and hydrocarbons formed from the flame- and smoke-retardant polymer compositions were generally lower than those observed with the base polymer. The additives enhanced carbon monoxide formation, especially during the later stage of the tests. Means for reducing the extent of oxidation of chars to carbon monoxide will be explored. Author