Integration of N- and P- elements in sodium alginate aerogels for efficient flame retardant and thermal insulating properties

In the field of building energy conservation, the development of biodegradable biomass aerogels with excellent mechanical performance, flame retardancy and thermal insulation properties is of particular importance. Here, a directional freeze-drying method was used for fabricating composite sodium alginate (SA) aerogels containing functionalized ammonium polyphosphate (APP) flame retardant. In particular, APP was coated with melamine (MEL) and phytic acid (PA) by a supramolecular assembly process. Through optimizing the flame retardant addition, the SA-20 AMP sample exhibited excellent flame retardant and thermal insulation properties, with the limiting oxygen index of 38.2 % and the UL-94 rating of V-0. Such aerogels with anisotropic morphology demonstrated a low thermal conductivity of 0.0288 (W/m·K) in the radial direction (perpendicular to the lamellar structure). In addition, as-obtained aerogels displayed remarkable water stability and mechanical properties, indicating significant potential for practical applications. [Display omitted] •A high-efficiency flame retardant was synthesized.•AMP has a good interface compatibility with sodium alginate.•SA-20 AMP reached V-0 rating and the LOI value was 38.2 %.•Directional freezing endows SA-20 AMP with outstanding thermal insulation properties.