Project Title: Preparation and Fire Resistance Mechanism of POSS/Polymer Composites

Principal Investigator: Associate Prof. Song Lei

Funding Source: National Natural Science Foundation of China

Project Period: 2005-2007

Abstract:

Polyhedral Oligomeric Silsesquioxanes (POSS) is one kind of regular nanostructure, and its substitution groups in corner are controllable and changeable. Because of this, we can get single-reactivity groups or multi- reactivity groups POSS monomer by proper ways. Then we can embed POSS units into polymer chains to construct functional composite. In this way, the polymer material’s performance of fire resistance and performance of mechanics can both be enhanced effectively, First, POSS monomer with one or more reactivity groups or without reactivity groups will be prepared. On the basis of this, several typical POSS/polymer composites will be prepared by graft, copolymerization or blending method. Secondly, we will study the synthesis method, synthesis reaction mechanism and the relationship of constitution, structure and performance of the composites thoroughly. Consequently, indicate the relation between its thermal stability, process of thermal decomposition, flame performance, mechanics and the constitution and structure of the composites. Finally, on the basis of summarizing the specific relationship, we will find out the fire resistance mechanism of POSS/polymer composites, which can accord with almost all the corresponding scientific experiment. Of course, this work will establish the theoretic basis and accumulate the experimental experience for the novel generation of silicon-containing fire resistant materials.