Modification of Soybean Meal Degradation Products to Achieve Durable Flame‐Retardant Finishing of Cotton Fabrics

ABSTRACT Conventional flame‐retardant textiles often rely on halogenated or formaldehyde‐based chemicals, raising environmental and health concerns. This study explores a sustainable alternative by developing a novel, durable, and halogen‐ and formaldehyde‐free flame retardant (PmS) derived from soybean meal through degradation and chemical modification. The key innovation lies in creating a high‐performance, bio‐based flame‐retardant finish that integrates durably into cotton fabric while maintaining essential textile properties. By applying 90 g/L PmS, the treated cotton fabric achieved an exceptional limiting oxygen index (LOI) of 29.2%, a significant reduction in char length to 68 mm, and retained a self‐extinguishing LOI of 25.3% even after 50 laundering cycles. Comprehensive characterization (FT‐IR, XPS, SEM, EDS) confirmed successful chemical bonding and penetration within the fibers. Cone calorimetry further demonstrated substantial fire safety improvements, with reductions in total heat release and peak heat release rate by 29.7% and 81.12%, respectively, supported by char residue analysis indicating a condensed‐phase flame‐retardant mechanism. Critically, the treated fabric preserved satisfactory softness, mechanical strength, and breathability. This work successfully establishes a viable and eco‐conscious strategy for durable flame‐retardant finishing of textiles using renewable biomass.