Studies on Flame Resistance of PVC Sheet Stabilized with Copper Salen Complex and Sb2O3

Abstract

In the present work, thermal stability behavior and flammability properties of Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) sheets filled with copper salen complexes and Sb₂O₃ have been studied through differential scanning calorometry, thermal conductivity measurement, Limiting Oxygen Index (LOI), discoloration, and Congo red test. Surface morphology of PVC sheets have also been studied through scanning electron microscopy analysis. The thermal stability of PVC sheets having Sb₂O₃ in conjunction with Cu-salen complex was found more than the Cu-salen complexes filled PVC sheets at 200°C observed through Congo Red test results. No change in colour of PVC sheets was observed even at 200°C and 300°C comprising 10 wt% of Sb₂O₃ with 1 phr Cu-salen complex. Limiting oxygen index values showed a hike of 5.9% with respect to limiting oxygen index value of control sample. The data obtained from experimental investigations reveal that copper salen complex and Sb₂O₃ in conjunction are depicting excellent synergy and efficiently retarding the flammability of casted Poly vinyl chloride sheets. The formulations may find suitable applications in construction, automobile, medical, and packaging materials.