Construction of silane-modified nanoscale magnesium hydroxide as an inorganic flame-retardant coating for silk textiles

Inorganic magnesium hydroxide nanoparticles (Mg(OH)2 NPs) offer a promising halogen-/phosphorus-free flame-retardant solution for silk. However, achieving effective and durable flame retardancy remains a challenge. In this study, silane-modified Mg(OH)2 NPs were prepared using the double drop-reverse precipitation method with the silane coupling agent 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane as a surface modifier. The chemical bonding between silane-modified Mg(OH)2 NPs and silk fabric was beneficial for improving the stabilization and durability of the functional particles on the silk surface. The surface morphology and structure of the silane-modified Mg(OH)2 NPs, as well as the smoke and heat generation performance, flame retardancy, washing durability, and flame-retardant mechanism of the coated silk fabrics were investigated. The coated silk fabric exhibited high flame-retardant efficiency and significantly reduced smoke and heat generation, indicating a lower fire hazard. Additionally, the coated silk fabric displayed self-extinguishing behavior even after 15 robust washings, demonstrating high washing durability. The coated silk exhibited fibrous and weave structures after combustion, indicating a strong charring ability. Overall, this study presents a promising approach for the development of flame-retardant silk fabrics with excellent washing durability using inorganic Mg(OH)2 NPs.