Advances in MOFs/clay nanocomposites within functional fire-safe polymeric materials

In recent years, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are often used as fillers to enhance the flame retardancy of polymers due to their unique physical and chemical properties, and their unique high surface area and regular pore structure allow them to be used in various types of polymers as new flame retardants by combining with other types of modifiers using modification and hybridisation or by forming derivatives on their own. Clay as a common natural modifier has been used for a long time to modify the flame retardant properties of polymers. Still, due to its poor dispersibility, it is usually necessary to combine with other synergists to improve the dispersibility in polymers. MOFs are often used as synergists to enhance clay dispersibility in polymers, thereby improving their flame retardant properties. This subject has been the focus of increasing academic scrutiny in recent years, resulting in rapid advancements. Consequently, it is imperative to provide a comprehensive review of this development for novices in the field. This paper, after introducing the synthesis methods of different MOFs/clay flame retardants, reviews the application of MOFs and clay flame retardants in polymer materials, categorized by type. It examines their synthesis methods, impacts on flame resistance and mechanical performance, and other fields of application. The study concludes with prospects for developing these materials as multifunctional retardants, addressing future challenges and opportunities.