Boron-containing ionic liquid functionalized Mo-MOF/graphene oxide hybrid for improving fire safety and maintaining mechanical properties for epoxy resin

A molybdenum-based metal organic framework (Mo-MOF) and graphene oxide (GO) hybrid functionalized with boron-containing ionic liquid ([BMIM]BF4) (GMB) was reported to effectively improve the fire safety and mechanical property of epoxy resin (EP). When 3 wt% GMB was added, the CO production rate, peak heat release rate and peak smoke release rate of EP composites decreased by 55.88%, 52.10% and 40.12%, respectively. The flame retardant mechanism was the combination of catalytic carbonization ([BMIM]BF4 and Mo-MOF), physical barrier effect (GO) and gas phase dilution (H2O and NH3 in gas production). Meanwhile, the incorporation of [BMIM]BF4 endowed EP composites with excellent mechanical properties.