A hyperbranched P/N/B-containing oligomer as multifunctional flame retardant for epoxy resins

Flame-retardant epoxy resins (EPs) with superior optical, mechanical and dielectric properties are highly desired in high-tech industries. In this work, a multifunctional hyperbranched additive (BDHDP) was synthesized for EPs. Our results showed that BDHDP catalyzed the curing of epoxy resin because of its tertiary amine and hydroxyl groups. At a low addition level (<3.0 wt%), BDHDP increased the glass-transition temperature and maintained the optical transmittance of epoxy thermoset. Meanwhile, BDHDP improved the mechanical strength and toughness, and reduced the dielectric constant and loss of EP because of the rigid phosphaphenanthrene groups and intra-molecular cavities. Moreover, BDHDP reduced the heat release and smoke generation during the EP combustion. Adding 1.5 wt% of BDHDP led to a UL-94 V-0 rating, and reduced the total smoke production by 16.4%. Hence, this study offers an effective method to create transparent EP thermosets with outstanding mechanical, dielectric and fire-retardant properties via incorporating a P/N/B-containing hyperbranched oligomer.