Synthesis and characterization of cross‐linked poly(sodium acrylate)/sodium silicate hydrogels

Transparent and intumescent polymer‐silicate hydrogels were synthesized by free‐radical polymerization, in the presence of the redox initiators system (potassium persulphate/sodium thiosulphate) and cross‐linking monomer (N,N′‐methylenebisacrylamide). Hydrogels obtained in such a manner were rheologically tested and it was found that the same sample with a different sodium acrylate concentration polymerized faster when its content was lower. The spectroscopic and thermal analysis proved that the polymer combines with sodium silicate by hydrogen bonds and during thermal degradation only small polymer fragments and water molecules were released. NMR studies have shown that the content of water glass causes shorter relaxation times. Conducted fire tests showed that glass panes systems filled with the tested hydrogels meet the relevant construction standards and what is their big advantage, a thin 1 mm layer of polymer‐silicate gel is sufficient for this purpose. We believe that these results will contribute to the development of intumescent hydrogels with enhanced fire‐retardant properties. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 59:1279–1287 2019. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers