Innovative Flame Retardant Materials: Balancing Efficiency, Safety, and Sustainability

The field of flame retardant chemistry has seen rapid advancements, driven by the need for safer and more effective materials across various applications, including the electrical and electronics sector, transportation, energy materials, and aerospace. Over the past decade, concerns about the environmental and health impacts of traditional flame retardants have led to stringent international and national regulations, creating a demand for innovative alternatives. Current research focuses on integrating fire retardancy into materials without significantly altering their properties or processing parameters, while also addressing environmental and health considerations. Despite significant progress, there remain gaps in understanding the intricate chemistry of flame retardants, their synthesis, and their combustion mechanisms. This necessitates further investigation to develop advanced solutions that meet high safety and sustainability standards.

This research topic aims to explore the latest developments in the chemistry of advanced flame retardant materials. The primary objective is to synthesize highly efficient and sustainable flame retardants that mitigate adverse environmental and health effects associated with traditional compounds. Specific questions include understanding the mechanisms by which flame retardants inhibit combustion and developing new technologies to enhance fire retardancy. Hypotheses to be tested involve the efficacy of novel flame retardant materials and their performance under various conditions.

To gather further insights into the boundaries of flame retardant chemistry, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

- Sustainability in Flame Retardant Materials: Synthesis of efficient and sustainable flame retardants based on organic and inorganic chemistry.
- New Developments in Flame Retardants: Utilization of advanced technologies such as nanotechnology and LBL self-assembly.
- Recycling of Flame Retardant Materials: Approaches for recycling FR thermoplastics and thermosets.
- Investigating Flame Retardant Mechanisms: Analysis of physical and chemical interactions at the molecular level.
- Testing, Characterization, and Modelling: Development of methodologies to assess performance and safety.
- Applications: Practical applications in various sectors, including transportation, architectural, and protective textiles.
- Flame Retardant Innovations in Emerging Markets: Developments in e-mobility, composites, additive manufacturing, and 5G telecommunication.