Effect of aluminum hydroxide on the fireproofing properties of ammonium polyphosphate–pentaerythritol-based intumescent coating

A fireproof composition based on ammonium polyphosphate and pentaerythritol with a number of functional additives was developed and studied. The additives are able to form a protective char during fire exposure below the thermal decomposition temperature of the polymer composites. The decrease in the char formation temperature of the fire-protective coating provides a molar excess of ammonium polyphosphate with respect to the mole fractions of pentaerythritol and aluminum hydroxide. Introducing the latter in the composition of the flame-retardant coating also contributes to the decrease in the char formation temperature. The fire-protection coating can be used to protect various combustible materials, e.g., wood, laminates, plastics, etc.