Flame-Retardant Elastomer Composition for Low-Temperature Fireproofing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Elastomer materials used for structural fire protection lack optimal elastic and mechanical properties, particularly at low temperatures, due to high glass transition temperatures and the detrimental effects of peroxide crosslinking systems, which impair dynamic properties and are costly.
Innovation Solution
A crosslinking system combining a sulfur- or sulfur-containing crosslinker with a peroxidic crosslinker in a substoichiometric ratio is used to produce a flame-retardant elastomer composition, comprising an elastomer with double bonds and a vinyl acetate-containing thermoplastic polymer, to achieve reduced glass transition temperatures and improved mechanical properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a peroxide crosslinking system is used to achieve high crosslinking density and tight network structure, then mechanical properties such as compression set at elevated temperatures are improved, but elastic and dynamic properties deteriorate and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines sulfur crosslinking and peroxide crosslinking systems to create a hybrid crosslinked network. The sulfur system provides the primary crosslinking for elastic properties, while the peroxide system contributes to thermal stability and compression set resistance. This merging allows the material to achieve both high elastic performance and resistance to compression set without relying solely on peroxide crosslinking.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes the ratio of sulfur to peroxide crosslinkers to achieve the desired balance of properties. By adjusting the concentration and type of crosslinkers, the crosslinking density and network structure are tuned to provide both elastic performance and thermal stability. This parameter optimization allows reduction of peroxide content while maintaining compression set resistance.
2Reliability
If flame retardants are added to elastomers to meet fire protection regulations, then flame-retardant properties are improved, but elastic properties deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a composite material system combining elastomer, vinyl acetate-containing thermoplastic polymer, and flame retardants. The thermoplastic polymer component helps maintain elastic properties while the flame retardants provide fire protection. The hybrid crosslinking system further enhances this by providing a flexible network that accommodates the flame retardant particles while maintaining elasticity.
3Reliability
If the entire elastomer element is manufactured with flame retardant to meet fire protection regulations, then flame-retardant properties are improved, but elastic properties deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a composite material where flame retardants are distributed throughout the elastomer matrix, but the elastic properties are maintained through the specific combination of elastomer, thermoplastic polymer, and hybrid crosslinking. This local distribution of flame retardants within the elastic matrix allows both fire protection and elastic performance to coexist.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The composition achieves a broader temperature range of elastomeric performance, maintaining mechanical integrity and reducing costs by minimizing peroxide use, suitable for applications down to -40°C.
Implementation Method 1
vulcanizing a flame-retardant elastomer composition comprising an elastomer containing double bonds and a vinyl acetate-containing thermoplastic polymer, a crosslinker system comprising a sulfur- or sulfur-containing crosslinker and a peroxide crosslinker
Implementation Method 2
The type of crosslinking and the crosslinking density allow properties such as hardness, modulus, strength, elongation at break, tear resistance, and elasticity to be adjusted to the desired level
Implementation Method 3
A small amount of peroxidic crosslinker is sufficient to achieve a noticeably reduced glass transition temperature
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The invention relates to molded parts for structural fireproofing, said molded parts being produced or being producible by vulcanizing a flameproof elastomer composition which comprises a polymer mixture consisting of a double bond-containing elastomer and a vinyl acetate-containing thermoplastic polymer, a crosslinking agent system that comprises a sulfur crosslinking agent or a sulfur-containing crosslinking agent and a peroxide crosslinking agent, and at least one flame retardant, wherein the sulfur crosslinking agent or the sulfur-containing crosslinking agent is provided in excess compared to the peroxide crosslinking agent in the crosslinking agent system. The invention additionally relates to corresponding methods for producing such molded parts and to the use of such molded parts for applications with a minimum permissible usage temperature of -40°C or lower.