Experimental Investigation on the Fire Reaction Properties of Tufted Flax‐Partial Bioepoxy Green Biocomposites Using Cone Calorimetry

ABSTRACT

This research work elaborates on scientific investigation into the fire reaction properties of a hybrid tufted green biocomposite (GBC) with and without fire retardant coating. Samples are exposed to 50 KW/m ² heat flux using a cone calorimeter. The biocomposite is engineered to offer a sustainable and biodegradable alternative to traditional petroleum‐based composite materials. The cone calorimeter tests provide data on critical fire performance parameters, such as heat release rate, time to ignition, mass loss rate and total smoke production. Literature review vis‐a‐vis tufting studies reveal that this technique is assessed from a mechanical viewpoint only and no data is found regarding the effect of tufting on fire reaction properties of composites. Therefore, this study focuses on the effect of tufting on improving the flame retardancy of the material. The outcomes have indicated that tufting reduces the peak heat release rate of GBC due to a reduction in the surface area of tufted structure, which obstructs the quick transfer of heat and reduces the rate at which flame spreads. The tufted samples also exhibited a lower mass loss rate, suggesting slow and gradual material degradation during combustion. Tufting was found to decrease total smoke production, which is beneficial for improving visibility and reducing smoke inhalation during a fire. Overall, the findings highlight the efficacy of tufting and fire retardant coating in enhancing the fire reaction properties of GBC. Consequently, tufted GBCs hold significant potential for applications in areas requiring both sustainability and safety, such as in construction and transport industries.