α-Aminophosphonate Derivatives for Enhanced Flame Retardant Properties in Epoxy Resin

This work demonstrates the introduction of various α-aminophosphonate compounds to an epoxy resin system, thereby improving flame retardance properties. The α-aminophosphonate scaffold allows for covalent incorporation (via the secondary amine) of the compounds into the polymer network. This work explores the synergistic effect of phosphorus and halogens (such as fluorine) to improve flame retardancy. The compounds were all prepared and isolated in analytical purity and in good yield (95%). Epoxy samples were prepared, individually incorporating each compound. Thermogravimetric analysis showed an increased char yield, indicating an improved thermal resistance (with respect to the control sample). Limiting oxygen index for the control polymer was 28.0% ± 0.31% and it increased to 34.6% ± 0.33% for the fluorinated derivative.