An Intelligent Fire-Protection Coating Based on Ammonium Polyphosphate/Epoxy Composites and Laser-Induced Graphene

Abstract

Fire-protection coatings with a self-monitoring ability play a critical role in safety and security. An intelligent fire-protection coating can protect humans from personal and property damage. In this work, we report the fabrication of a low-cost and facile intelligent fire coating based on a composite of ammonium polyphosphate and epoxy (APP/EP). The composite was processed using laser scribing, which led to a laser-induced graphene (LIG) layer on the APP/EP surface via a photothermal effect. The C–O, C=O, P–O, and N−C bonds in the flame-retardant APP/EP composite were broken during the laser scribing, while the remaining carbon atoms recombined to generate the graphene layer. A proof-of-concept was achieved by demonstrating the use of LIG in supercapacitors, as a temperature sensor, and as a hazard detection device based on the shape memory effect of the APP/EP composite. The intelligent flame protection coating had a high flame retardancy, which increased the time to ignition (TTI) from 21 s to 57 s, and the limiting oxygen index (LOI) value increased to 37%. The total amount of heat and smoke released during combustion was effectively suppressed by ≈ 71.1% and ≈ 74.1%, respectively. The maximum mass-specific supercapacitance could reach 245.6 F·g−1. The additional LIG layer enables applications of the device as a LIG-APP/EP temperature sensor and allows for monitoring of the deformation according to its shape memory effect. The direct laser scribing of graphene from APP/EP in an air atmosphere provides a convenient and practical approach for the fabrication of flame-retardant electronics.

Effects of SiO2 and ZnO Nanoparticles on Epoxy Coatings and Its Performance Investigation Using Thermal and Nanoindentation Technique

“…Some special resins, curing agents, and additives are incorporated into the formulations to prevent scratching of metal surfaces. Nowadays industrial and protective coating systems are designed to achieve multi-functions, e.g., protection, high mechanical properties, fire resistance, and corrosion resistance [ 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 ]. The protective coating system has significant importance, particularly under service conditions of exposure to the aggressive environments of corrosion and chemical attacks.…”