Thermal Stability of Optically Transparent Alpha-Zirconium Phosphate/Poly(methyl methacrylate) Nanocomposites with High Particle Loading

Abstract

Annually, household fires cause 7 billion dollars worth of damage to property in the United States1. Fortunately, this number is decreasing due in part to continuous advances in material flammability and firefighting procedures. In order to drive down fire losses even further, problem areas must be identified, and mitigation strategies must be developed. One area of improvement is in the realm of polymers. Polymeric materials are inexpensive, lightweight, and high strength, leading to their widespread integration into industrial and household applications. Since nearly all polymers are hydrocarbon-based, they provide an energy-rich fuel source in the event of a fire, making the mitigation of polymer flammability key in reducing fire losses.