Fabrication of MBene-Based ZIF Flame Retardant Epoxy Resin via Green and Feasible Mechanochemical Method

MXenes, as a 2D layered material, were applied in the field of flame retardancy and usually required etching with hydrofluoric acid. This article used a low-cost, environmentally friendly, and sustainable mechanical ball milling method to peel off MBenes and obtain MBene nanosheets. A novel heterogeneous flame retardant (ZIF90PN@MB) was synthesized through electrostatic self-assembly of DOPO-modified ZIF90 with MBene nanosheets, marking the first incorporation of MBene-based materials into EP systems. With the addition of 3 wt % of ZIF90PN@MB, EP composites achieved a UL-94 V-1 rating, and the peak heat release rate, total heat release, CO production, and CO2 production were reduced by 43%, 20%, 32%, and 44%, respectively. Without serious deterioration of the mechanical properties, this indicated that EP composites had obtained excellent flame retardancy and smoke suppression properties while maintaining the mechanical properties. Crucially, these enhancements were attained without compromising mechanical integrity, indicating the successful preservation of mechanical performance alongside superior flame retardation and smoke suppression capabilities.