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Organoclay (organically modified montmorillonite, OMMT) was introduced to the composite of polystyrene/magnesium hydroxide (PS/MH) by melt compounding. The structure of the obtained PS/MH/OMMT composite was characterized by X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. Thermal degradation behavior and flame retardancy of the composite were investigated by various means. It is shown that the PS/MH/OMMT composite has an intercalated nanostructure with the PS chains intercalated between the OMMT layers and the MH particles dispersed evenly in the PS matrix. Compared with the PS/MH composite containing identical amount of flame retardant, the introduction of OMMT has increased the thermal degradation temperature and lowered the mass loss rate at high temperatures. The PS/MH/OMMT nanocomposite can produce a more continuous and compact charred residue layer upon degradation both in air and burnt in flame than the PS/MH composite. Because of formation of this highly thermally stable and insulating charred residue layer, the nanocomposite exhibits much improved thermal endurance, flame retardancy, smoke suppression, and dripping resistance. Moreover, the combination of MH and OMMT makes the composite more difficult to ignite and decreases the release of toxic gas. The advantage of the PS/MH/ OMMT nanocomposite is more pronounced in the early stage of combustion. POLYM. COMPOS., 37:746-755, 2016.

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