Flame Retardant Performance of Phosphatized Starch in Epoxy Resins: A Sustainable Approach to Enhancing Fire Safety

ABSTRACT The imperative to protect human life and property from the threat of fires underscores the need for effective flame retardants (FRs). In response to growing calls for sustainability, bio‐based FR options have emerged, among which phosphatized starch (PS) has shown considerable promise. This study investigates the FR mechanisms and FR performance of thermally stabilized PS in epoxy resin‐based thermosets through thermo‐gravimetric analysis, thermo‐gravimetric Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy mass spectrometry, and cone calorimetry. PS primarily acts in the condensed phase by promoting the formation of char and an intumescent layer. Incorporating 25% of PS into the thermoset significantly reduces the peak heat release rate, total heat release, and total smoke release by 70%, 52%, and 53%, respectively. As the global pursuit of responsible and environmentally conscious fire safety solutions intensifies, exploring PS as a bio‐based FR represents a promising step toward a safer and more sustainable future.