Deoxybenzoin-based Anti-flammable Polyphosphonate and Poly(arylate-phosphonate) Copolymer Compounds

PRODUCT OPPORTUNITIES

• Inherently flame-retardant polyphosphonates
• Inherently flame-retardant poly(arylate-phosphonate) copolymers

ADVANTAGES

• Halogen-free
• Inherently flame-resistant
• Soluble in many common organic solvents
• Easily processible

TECHNOLOGY DESCRIPTION

Synthetic polymers are used extensively as plastics, rubbers, foams, textiles, and construction materials; however, the flammability of many polymers is recognized as a safety hazard and an important challenge in polymer research. To reduce polymer flammability, halogenated small molecule flame-retardant additives are commonly incorporated into polymer materials. However, such halogenated additives may compromise polymer properties, and moreover pose environmental problems associated with additive leaching. To overcome these problems, researchers at UMass Amherst have developed halogen-free, inherently flame-retardant polymers. This invention provides deoxybenzoin-based anti-flammable polyphosphonate and poly(acylate-phophonate copolymer compounds with low heat release capacity values and high char yields.

ABOUT THE LEAD INVENTOR

Dr. Todd Emrick is a Professor in the Department of Polymer Science and Engineering. He is a prolific inventor and a Fellow of the National Academy of Inventors.

AVAILABILITY:

Available for Licensing Non-exclusively

DOCKET:

UMA 06-22

PATENT STATUS:

US Patents 7,863,400 and 8,158,742 Issued

NON-CONFIDENTIAL INVENTION DISCLOSURE

LEAD INVENTOR:

Todd S. Emrick, Ph.D.

CONTACT:

Synthetic polymers are used extensively as plastics, rubbers, foams, textiles, and construction materials; however, the flammability of many polymers is recognized as a safety hazard and an important challenge in polymer research. To reduce polymer flammability, halogenated small molecule flame-retardant additives are commonly incorporated into polymer materials. However, such halogenated additives may compromise polymer properties, and moreover pose environmental problems associated with additive leaching. To overcome these problems, researchers at UMass Amherst have developed halogen-free, inherently flame-retardant polymers. This invention provides deoxybenzoin-based anti-flammable polyphosphonate and poly(acylate-phophonate copolymer compounds with low heat release capacity values and high char yields.