ZIF-8@Co-doped boronate ester polymer core-shell particles: Catalytically enhancing the nonflammability and smoke suppression of epoxy resin

•A facile coating strategy was adopted to decorate ZIF-8 nanoparticles with a boronate ester polymer shell incorporated with Co2+.•Epoxy/ZIF-8@BP-Co nanocomposite exhibits flame retardancy and capability of catalytic carbonization, and smoke suppression.•The mechanical properties of the epoxy/ZIF-8@BP-Co nanocomposite were improved, because the BP-Co shell acts like a coupling agent between the polymer matrix and the flame retardant.