The comparison of phosphorus-nitrogen and sulfur-phosphorus-nitrogen on the anti-flammability and thermal degradation of cotton fabrics

Phosphorus-nitrogen (P-N) or sulfur (S) containing compounds are well known for their effectiveness as flame retardant additives for many polymeric systems. When either phosphorus or nitrogen is combined with sulfur, the new systems prove to be successful combinations. This research aims to learn the impact of two systems, P-N and S-P-N, on the flammability and thermal properties of cotton fabrics. The process includes the synthesis of two compounds, tetraethyl piperazine-1,4-diyldiphosphonate (TEPP) and O,O,O',O'-tetramethyl piperazine-1,4-diyldiphosphonothioate (TMPT), and the evaluation of flammability, thermal degradation, and surface morphology of the treated fabrics. Both compounds exhibit similar burning behavior and show improved flame retardancy and thermal properties when used on various cotton fabrics. Some unique flame retardant properties for the two compounds are also disclosed.