Green Flame Retardants for Sustainable Polymers with Promising Multi-Functionalities: A Next-Generation Approach

The global flame retardant industry is transforming significantly, shifting from petroleum-based products to environmentally friendly alternatives derived from renewable natural sources. This transition aligns with the growing emphasis on sustainability and the development of biodegradable polymers aimed at mitigating the negative impacts of nonrenewable substrates. Consequently, the innovation of green flame retardants and sustainable polymer materials has emerged as a pivotal research area within the scientific community. This review synthesizes recent advancements in this field, focusing on the application of green flame retardants sourced from plants, animals, and microorganisms in biodegradable polymer substrates, such as textiles and plastics. Their performance, mechanisms of action, and additional functionalities beyond flame inhibition are examined. Furthermore, the inherent limitations of these bio-derived compounds are discussed, which warrant further investigation to fully realize their potential. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of current developments and future directions in the pursuit of sustainable flame retardant solutions.