Comparative study of the effect of Cu2O and MoO3 on flame retardance and smoke emission of PVC by Cone and TGA

Cuprous and molybdic oxides exhibit extremely effectiveness in smoke suppression for PVC. However, few are the data reported concerning flame retardance and smoke emission of PVG taken from Cone calorimetry relative to the conventional thermal analysis technique. Abundant data from Cone calorimetry have been acquired. Data analysis was achieved through the study of MLR, HRR, SEA tested at irradiance of 25 kWm(-2). The understandable flame retardance of PVC/Cu2O and PVC/MoO3 relative to pure PVC has been rationalized by their lowered heat release rates and enhanced char residues. The difference in smoke reduction between these two oxides consists in the time scale. As clearly seen under air atmosphere both oxides exert themselves to the afterglow which has been recognized as a dangerous source, in particular in the full-scale fire situation.