Construction of silane-modified nanoscale magnesium hydroxide as an inorganic flame-retardant coating for silk textiles

Inorganic magnesium hydroxide nanoparticles (Mg(OH)2 NPs) offer a promising halogen-/phosphorus-free flame-retardant solution for silk. However, achieving effective and durable flame retardancy remains a challenge. In this study, silane-modified Mg(OH)2 NPs were prepared using the double drop-reverse precipitation method with the silane coupling agent 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane as a surface modifier. The chemical bonding between silane-modified Mg(OH)2 NPs and silk fabric was beneficial for improving the stabilization and durability of the functional particles on the silk surface. The surface morphology and structure of the silanemodified Mg(OH)2 NPs, as well as the smoke and heat generation performance, flame retardancy, washing durability, and flame-retardant mechanism of the coated silk fabrics were investigated. The coated silk fabric exhibited high flame-retardant efficiency and significantly reduced smoke and heat generation, indicating a lower fire hazard. Additionally, the coated silk fabric displayed self-extinguishing behavior even after 15 robust washings, demonstrating high washing durability. The coated silk exhibited fibrous and weave structures after combustion, indicating a strong charring ability. Overall, this study presents a promising approach for the development of flame-retardant silk fabrics with excellent washing durability using inorganic Mg(OH)2 NPs.