Fire-resistant polymer composites based on mineral fillers

This review examines the role of mineral fillers in improving the fire resistance property of polymer composites during combustion. The mechanism of action of mineral filler particles and the nature of changes in the fire resistance of composites depending on the ratio of components in the mixture are considered. The separate and combined effects of natural and modified mineral fillers on the heat resistance and fire resistance of polymer composites are also considered. Mineral fillers such as zeolite, huntite, hydromagnesite, sepiolite, basalt, vermiculite, montmorillonite, perlite, mica, talc, halloysite, kaolin and wollastonite are used to evaluate the flame-retardant properties of composites. Results from different studies on the influence of various types of mineral flame retardants, structural features of the polymer matrix and the composition of composites on the flame-retardant mechanism are systematically evaluated. In conclusion, the promising possibilities of using mineral flame retardants in various fire-resistant polymer composites are considered.