Ammonium Hexafluorophosphate as a Flame Retardant for Cellulose

Ammonium hexafluorophosphate has been investigated as a flame retardant. A piece of whatman filter paper, α-cellulose, which was dipped in an aqueous solution of ammonium hexafluorophosphate (AHFP) (2-10%) and dried, car bonized when ignited without catching fire. The effect of AHFP on the decom position and combustion of α-cellulose has been studied using TG, DTA and DTG. The observed flame retardant property of AHFP has been attributed to its decomposition favouring the dehydration pathway. The fluorine in AHFP facilities and accelerates this pathway representing a true case of synergism.