Improving Fire Resistance in E-Vehicles: A Study on MPP-Enhanced S-Glass/Phenolic Hybrid Composites

Abstract

The automotive industry has benefited greatly from the advancements in fireproof, high-strength fiber-reinforced polymer matrix composites during the last several decades. S-Glass/Phenolic hybrid composites made by hydraulic compression molding are the subject of this investigation into the effects of Melamine Polyphosphate (MPP) on their thermal and fire performance. In addition to studying the morphology of the samples, researchers analyzed the thermal and fire performances of hybrid laminates made with neat laminates and varying compositions of MPP (ranging from 3% to 15% by weight). Tests included UL 94, limiting oxygen index (LOI), and the impacts of accelerated heat ageing on the behavior of the hybrid specimens. The results demonstrated that specimens filled with higher MPP performed better in a fire compared to neat samples. According to the results in UL 94 horizontal burning test and vertical burning test, specimens filled with 12 and 15 wt. % MPP demonstrated a reduced flame spreading rate and fulfilled the V-0 criteria. Simultaneously, the energy absorption capacity of hybrid configurations is severely limited by heat ageing, due to its temperature and duration dependent. The research proved that the suggested S-Glass / Phenolic / Melamine Polyphosphate hybrid composites were suitable for creating environmentally friendly electric vehicle battery housings and fire-resistant automotive parts.