Facile synthesis of 3D flower-like nickel phyllosilicate on graphite phase carbon nitride: a strategy for reducing fire hazard of epoxy resin

The design of epoxy resin (EP) with high flame retardancy, smoke suppression, and rapid curing capability has attracted significant attention in industrial applications. To reduce the fire hazard and enhance the processability of EP-based materials, a novel hybrid (g-C 3 N 4 @NiPS) was synthesized by in-situ growth of flower-like nickel phyllosilicate on the surface of graphite phase carbon nitride. The effects of g-C 3 N 4 @NiPS on the thermal stability and combustion properties of EP composites were investigated. The results showed that 5 mass% g-C 3 N 4 @NiPS delayed the early-stage decomposition and increased the residual char of the EP composite from 11.3 to 20.8 mass%. The addition of 5 mass% g-C 3 N 4 @NiPS reduced the peak heat release rate and peak smoke production rate of the EP composite by 34.5% and 41.9%, respectively. Specifically, the maximum release rates of CO and CO 2 decreased by 49.2% and 32.3%, respectively, greatly reducing the fire hazard. The residual char of EP/g-C 3 N 4 @NiPS exhibited a high degree of graphitization and displayed an excellent barrier effect, reducing the supply of fuel and the release of toxic fumes during EP combustion. Additionally, the presence of g-C 3 N 4 @NiPS showed a beneficial impact on expediting the cure response. This study provides a feasible strategy for the wide application of EP. Graphical abstract