Molecular Modification of β‐CD Host–Guest Complexes for Rodent‐Proof Flame Retardants

ABSTRACT As urbanization progresses, electrical cables are increasingly installed underground, making them vulnerable to rodent damage, which can lead to short circuits, power outages, signal interruptions, and fires. To address the irritation caused by traditional chemical rodent repellents, this study introduces a novel, environmentally friendly solution. By encapsulating Dihydro capsaicin (DHCP) with β‐cyclodextrin (β‐CD) and modifying melamine cyanurate (MCA), we developed an efficient rodent repellent, β‐CD/DHCP@MCA, which significantly reduces DHCP's irritant effects during processing. This compound was combined with ammonium polyphosphate (APP) and dipentaerythritol (DPER) to create an intumescent flame‐retardant rodent repellent, applied to polypropylene (PP) materials. Experimental results demonstrate that PP materials containing this composite additive exhibit excellent flame‐retardant and rodent‐repellent properties, with an increased oxygen index of 30.9%. Rodent tests indicate that the material provides a significant non‐lethal deterrent effect on rats. This study offers an effective approach to mitigating DHCP's irritant effects and presents new insights for developing efficient flame‐retardant rodent repellents in polymer materials.