Flame retardancy in thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers (TPU) with mica and aluminum trihydrate (ATH)

Two types of aluminum trihydrate (ATH), with or without surface treatment, and mica were incorporated into TPU composites. The quantity of mica that s hould be used has been previously evaluated from mechanical properties. In the present work, different mixtures of TPU/ATH/mica were prepared and thos e compositions presenting fire retardancy were identified through the two p rincipal tests in this area: vertical burning (UL94) and oxygen index (ASTM D2863). The influence of mica on fire resistance was also evaluated. The o bjective of this work was to obtain good flame retardancy in TPU-mica compo sites and an optimum cost-performance balance as a consequence of mica addi tion. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.