Investigation of bisphenol-substituted spirocyclic phosphazenes as cotton textile–based flame retardants

Bisphenol-substituted spirocyclic phosphazene derivatives were synthesized in 85%–94% yields and analyzed for flame retardant application to cotton fabric using Limiting Oxygen Index, Fourier transform infrared thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, microscale combustion calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, and scanning electron microscopy. The thermogravimetric analysis methods indicate a decomposition pathway consistent for phosphorus-nitrogen-containing compounds. Levoglucosan phosphorylation and carbonaceous char formation were observed. Limiting Oxygen Index testing of these compounds on cotton-based fabrics showed improved flame resistance compared to untreated fabrics.