U.S. patent application number 12/672793 was filed with the patent office on 2011-12-22 for flame retardant, method of manufacturing the same, resin composition of matter, and method of manufacturing the same.
This patent application is currently assigned to SONY CORPORATION. Invention is credited to Yasuhito Inagaki.
Application Number | 20110313110 12/672793 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40378109 |
Filed Date | 2011-12-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110313110 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Inagaki; Yasuhito |
December 22, 2011 |
FLAME RETARDANT, METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME, RESIN
COMPOSITION OF MATTER, AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME
Abstract
A flame retardant with which fire retardancy is improved and the
fire retardancy is able to be secured stably for a long time is
provided. An internal layer 11 containing a polymer and a flame
retardant factor layer 12 that is formed outside of the internal
layer 11 and that contains a polymer to which at least one of a
sulfonate group and a sulfonate base is bonded are included.
Thereby, compared to a case that the flame retardant factor layer
12 is not included, moisture is hardly absorbed, and respective
particles of the flame retardant are inhibited from being adhered
to each other. Accordingly, blocking is inhibited.
Inventors: |
Inagaki; Yasuhito;
(Kanagawa, JP) |
Assignee: |
SONY CORPORATION
Tokyo
JP
|
Family ID: |
40378109 |
Appl. No.: |
12/672793 |
Filed: |
August 12, 2008 |
PCT Filed: |
August 12, 2008 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/JP2008/064451 |
371 Date: |
February 9, 2010 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
525/146 ;
525/329.2; 525/333.5; 525/353 |
Current CPC
Class: |
C09K 21/14 20130101;
C08L 101/02 20130101; C08J 7/12 20130101; C08F 2800/20 20130101;
C08F 8/36 20130101; C08F 2800/10 20130101; C08L 2205/025 20130101;
C08L 2201/02 20130101; C08L 2205/035 20130101; C08L 2205/03
20130101; C08L 69/00 20130101; C08F 8/36 20130101; C08F 112/08
20130101; C08F 8/36 20130101; C08F 212/10 20130101; C08L 69/00
20130101; C08L 2666/02 20130101; C08L 69/00 20130101; C08L 55/02
20130101; C08L 25/12 20130101; C08L 27/18 20130101; C08L 69/00
20130101; C08L 25/06 20130101; C08L 27/18 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
525/146 ;
525/329.2; 525/333.5; 525/353 |
International
Class: |
C08L 25/18 20060101
C08L025/18; C08L 69/00 20060101 C08L069/00; C08F 8/36 20060101
C08F008/36; C08F 212/10 20060101 C08F212/10; C08F 212/08 20060101
C08F212/08 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Aug 20, 2007 |
JP |
2007-213413 |
Claims
1. A flame retardant containing a particulate polymer, wherein at
least one of a sulfonate group and a sulfonate base is bonded to a
surface layer section of the polymer.
2. The flame retardant according to claim 1, wherein the polymer
has at least one of an aromatic ring and a double bond.
3. The flame retardant according to claim 1, wherein the polymer
contains a thermoplastic resin.
4. The flame retardant according to claim 1, wherein an occupancy
ratio of sulfur (S) in at least one of the sulfonate group and the
sulfonate base to the whole flame retardant is from 0.1 wt % to 5
wt % both inclusive.
5. The flame retardant according to claim 1, wherein a ratio of a
thickness of the surface layer section is 50% or less to a particle
diameter of the polymer.
6. A method of manufacturing a flame retardant, wherein a
particulate polymer having a moisture content of 3.5 wt % or less
is sulfonated, and thereby at least one of a sulfonate group and a
sulfonate base is bonded to a surface layer section.
7. The method of manufacturing a flame retardant according to claim
6, wherein the polymer has at least one of an aromatic ring and a
double bond.
8. The method of manufacturing a flame retardant according to claim
6, wherein the polymer contains a thermoplastic resin.
9. The method of manufacturing a flame retardant according to claim
6, wherein the polymer contains 30 wt % or more of particles being
60 mesh or less in size, and contains 10 wt % or more of particles
being 80 mesh or less in size.
10. The method of manufacturing a flame retardant according to
claim 6, wherein in the case where the moisture content of the
polymer is larger than 3.5 wt %, the moisture content is adjusted
to become 3.5 wt % or less.
11. The method of manufacturing a flame retardant according to
claim 6, wherein sulfonation is performed so that an occupancy
ratio of sulfur (S) in at least one of the sulfonate group and the
sulfonate base to the whole flame retardant becomes from 0.1 wt %
to 5 wt % both inclusive.
12. The method of manufacturing a flame retardant according to
claim 6, wherein sulfonation is performed so that a ratio of a
thickness of the surface layer section becomes 50% or less to a
particle diameter of the polymer.
13. A resin composition of matter containing a resin and a flame
retardant, wherein the flame retardant contains a particulate
polymer, and at least one of a sulfonate group and a sulfonate base
is bonded to a surface layer section of the polymer.
14. The resin composition of matter according to claim 13, wherein
the polymer has at least one of an aromatic ring and a double
bond.
15. The resin composition of matter according to claim 13, wherein
the polymer contains a thermoplastic resin.
16. The resin composition of matter according to claim 13, wherein
an occupancy ratio of sulfur (S) in at least one of the sulfonate
group and the sulfonate base to the flame retardant is from 0.1 wt
% to 5 wt % both inclusive.
17. The resin composition of matter according to claim 13, wherein
a ratio of a thickness of the surface layer section is 50% or less
to a particle diameter of the polymer.
18. The resin composition of matter according to claim 13, wherein
a content of the flame retardant is from 0.001 wt % to 10 wt % both
inclusive.
19. The resin composition of matter according to claim 13, wherein
the resin is polycarbonate or a mixture of a thermoplastic polymer
containing polycarbonate.
20. A method of manufacturing a resin composition of matter
containing a resin and a flame retardant, wherein a particulate
polymer having a moisture content of 3.5 wt % or less is
sulfonated, and thereby at least one of a sulfonate group and a
sulfonate base is bonded to a surface layer section, and
consequently the flame retardant is formed.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to a flame retardant, a method
of manufacturing the same, a resin composition of matter containing
a flame retardant, and a method of manufacturing the same.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] In recent years, since a resin composition of matter such as
a rubber and a plastic has superior moldability and superior impact
resistance, the resin composition of matter is widely used for home
electric appliances, auto parts and the like. Accordingly, a resin
composition of matter having high durability, high safety and the
like has been demanded. Specially, improving fire safety has been
desired. For example, a technology to give fire retardancy to the
resin composition of matter has been progressively developed.
[0003] As a technology to give fire retardancy to the resin
composition of matter, a method of containing a resin-use flame
retardant into the resin composition of matter has been considered.
Examples of the resin-use flame retardant include a metal hydroxide
system (magnesium hydroxide and aluminum hydroxide) flame
retardant, a silicon system (silicon and silica) flame retardant, a
halogen (bromine) system flame retardant, and a phosphorus system
(ester phosphate, red phosphorus and the like) flame retardant.
However, in the case where the metal hydroxide system flame
retardant is used, the additive amount thereof to the resin
composition of matter is increased, and thus there is a problem
that the mechanical characteristic are easily lowered. In the case
where the halogen system flame retardant is used, there is a
problem that the impact strength of the resin composition of matter
is easily lowered. Further, for the silicon system flame retardant,
its applicable resin composition of matter is limited, and thus
there is a problem that its use application is limited.
[0004] Therefore, of the foregoing flame retardants, the phosphorus
system flame retardant is currently attracts attention. However, in
the case where the phosphorus system flame retardant is used, there
is a problem that gas is generated in injection-molding the resin
composition of matter, and impact resistance and heat resistance
are easily lowered.
[0005] Further, currently, a technology to give fire retardancy to
a resin composition of matter by using a sulfonated polymer having
an aromatic ring as a flame retardant, and containing the same
together with a polycarbonate resin or the like into the resin
composition of matter has been proposed (for example, refer to
Patent Documents 1 to 5). [0006] Patent Document 1 Japanese
Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2001-181342 [0007]
Patent Document 2 Japanese Unexamined Patent Application
Publication No. 2001-181444 [0008] Patent Document 3 Japanese
Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2005-272537 [0009]
Patent Document 4 Japanese Unexamined Patent Application
Publication No. 2005-272538 [0010] Patent Document 5 Japanese
Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2005-272539
DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION
[0011] However, in the technologies described in the foregoing
Patent Documents 1 to 5, the flame retardant easily absorbs
moisture, and thus blocking is easily generated. It results in a
problem that in manufacturing a resin composition of matter
including the flame retardant, dispersion is hardly realized.
Further, in the manufactured resin composition of matter, there is
a problem that the physical property is hardly lowered associated
with moisture absorption.
[0012] In the recent home electric appliances, auto parts and the
like, their light weight and design characteristics are regarded as
important characteristics. Thus, a resin composition of matter with
high workability tends to be more widely used. Thus, it has been
aspired to secure the physical properties of the resin composition
of matter stably for a long time, to improve the safety, and in
particular, to further improve the flame retardant.
[0013] In view of the foregoing problem, it is an object of the
present invention to provide a flame retardant with which fire
retardancy is able to be improved and the fire retardancy is able
to be secured stably for a long time, a method of manufacturing the
same, a resin composition of matter, and a method of manufacturing
the same.
[0014] A flame retardant of the present invention is a flame
retardant containing a particulate polymer, wherein at least one of
a sulfonate group and a sulfonate base is bonded to a surface layer
section of the polymer. Further, a resin composition of matter of
the present invention contains a resin and the foregoing flame
retardant.
[0015] In a method of manufacturing a flame retardant of the
present invention, a particulate polymer having a moisture content
of 3.5 wt % or less is sulfonated, and thereby at least one of a
sulfonate group and a sulfonate base is bonded to a surface layer
section. Further, in a method of manufacturing a resin composition
of matter of the present invention, a resin and a flame retardant
manufactured by the foregoing method are contained.
[0016] According to the flame retardant and the resin composition
of matter containing the same of the present invention, the flame
retardant contains the particulate polymer, and at least one of the
sulfonate group and the sulfonate base is bonded to a surface layer
section of the polymer. Thus, even if being exposed under high
humidity environment, moisture absorption is inhibited. Thereby,
fire retardancy is improved, and the fire retardancy is able to be
secured stably for a long time.
[0017] According to the method of manufacturing a flame retardant
and the method of manufacturing a resin composition of matter
containing the flame retardant manufactured by the same of the
present invention, the particulate polymer having the moisture
content of 3.5 wt % or less is sulfonated, and at least one of the
sulfonate group and the sulfonate base is bonded to the surface
layer section, and thereby the flame retardant is formed. Thus, the
particles of the flame retardant are hardly adhered to each other
and are easily dispersed uniformly, and thus compatibility is
improved. Thereby, the resin composition of matter which has
superior fire retardancy and in which the fire retardancy is
secured stably for a long time is able to be stably
manufactured.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0018] FIG. 1 is a cross sectional view illustrating a structure of
a flame retardant according to an embodiment of the present
invention;
[0019] FIG. 2 is a schematic view illustrating a relation between a
cross sectional structure of the flame retardant illustrated in
FIG. 1 and a distribution of secondary ion intensity;
[0020] FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a method of manufacturing
the flame retardant according to the embodiment of the present
invention;
[0021] FIG. 4 illustrates a photograph obtained by imaging a cross
section of a flame retardant of Example 1-1 from a secondary ion
intensity, a schematic view thereof, and a distribution of a
secondary ion intensity; and
[0022] FIG. 5 is a photograph obtained by imaging a cross section
of a flame retardant of Comparative example 1-1 from a secondary
ion intensity.
BEST MODE(S) FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
[0023] A description will be hereinafter given in detail of an
embodiment of the present invention with reference to the
drawings.
[0024] FIG. 1 illustrates a cross sectional structure of a flame
retardant according to an embodiment of the present invention. The
flame retardant is intended to give fire retardancy to a resin
composition of matter, and has a particulate internal layer 11.
Outside of the internal layer 11, a flame retardant factor layer 12
is formed.
[0025] The internal layer 11 is composed of a polymer. The polymer
is able to be voluntarily set, but may have at least one selected
from the group consisting of aromatic rings and double bonds.
[0026] Examples of polymers include polystyrene (PS), high impact
polystyrene (HIPS: styrene-butadiene copolymer), an
acrylonitrile-styrene copolymer (AS), an
acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS), an
acrylonitrile-chlorinated polyethylene-styrene resin (ACS), an
acrylonitrile-styrene-acrylate copolymer (ASA), an
acrylonitrile-ethylene propylene rubber-styrene copolymer (AES), an
acrylonitrile-ethylene-propylene-diene-styrene resin (AEPDMS),
polycarbonate (PC), polyphenylene oxide (PPO), polyethylene
terephthalate (PET), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polysulfone
(PSF), polyactate (PLE), natural rubber (NR), isoprene rubber (IR),
butadiene rubber (BR), chloroprene rubber (CR), nitrile rubber
(NBR), hydroxylated nitrile rubber (HNBR), butyl rubber (IIR),
ethylene rubber (EPDM), silicon rubber (O), and thermoplastic
elastomer (TPE). One thereof may be used singly, or a mixture
(alloy) obtained by mixing a plurality thereof may be used.
Examples of mixtures (alloys) include an ABS/PC alloy, a PS/PC
alloy, an AS/PC alloy, a HIPS/PC alloy, a PET/PC alloy, a PBT/PC
alloy, a PVC/PC alloy, a PLA/PC alloy, a PPO/PC alloy, a PS/PPO
alloy, a HIPS/PPO alloy, an ABS/PET alloy, and a PET/PBT alloy.
Specially, polystyrene, high impact polystyrene, an
acrylonitrile-styrene copolymer, an acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene
copolymer, an acrylonitrile-chlorinated polyethylene-styrene resin,
an acrylonitrile-styrene-acrylate copolymer, an
acrylonitrile-ethylene propylene rubber-styrene copolymer, an
acrylonitrile-ethylene-propylene-diene-styrene resin,
polycarbonate, polyphenylene oxide, polyethylene terephthalate,
polybutylene terephthalate, or polysulfone is preferable. Examples
of the polymers include a thermoplastic resin and a thermoset
resin. The thermoplastic resin is preferable, since if the
thermoplastic resin is contained in a resin composition of matter,
high compatibility is able to be obtained.
[0027] The flame retardant factor layer 12 formed in the surface
layer section of the flame retardant contains a polymer with which
at least one of a sulfonate group (--SO.sub.3H) and a sulfonate
base (hereinafter referred to as the sulfonate group or the like)
is bonded as a flame retardant factor. The polymer is structured
similarly to the polymer contained in the internal layer 11. That
is, the flame retardant factor layer 12 is formed by binding the
sulfone group or the like to the surface layer section of the
particulate polymer. The flame retardant factor layer 12 may be
formed to cover the whole area of the internal layer 11, may be
formed in part of the outside of the internal layer 11, or may be
formed in a state other than lamination. Since the flame retardant
factor layer 12 is provided in the surface layer section of the
flame retardant, even if the flame retardant is exposed under high
humidity environment, moisture hardly penetrates into the internal
section, moisture absorption is inhibited, particles of the flame
retardant are hardly adhered to each other, and blocking is
inhibited. Thus, in the case where the flame retardant is contained
in a resin composition of matter, handling characteristics and
dispersiveness are improved, and compatibility is also improved.
Therefore, fire retardancy of the resin composition of matter is
improved with a small additive amount, and long-term stability of
physical properties such as fire retardancy and mechanical strength
is secured.
[0028] The sulfonate group or the like is a flame retardant factor
to appropriate give fire retardancy. The sulfonate group or the
like may be uniformly bonded with the polymer, or may be
ununiformly bonded with the polymer. The occupancy ratio of sulfur
(S) in the sulfonate group or the like to the whole flame retardant
is preferably from 0.1 wt % to 10 wt % both inclusive, since
thereby high effect is obtained. More specifically, if the
occupancy ratio of sulfur (S) in the sulfonate group or the like to
the whole flame retardant is under 0.1 wt %, fire retardancy is
hardly given to the resin composition of matter stably. Meanwhile,
if the occupancy ratio of sulfur (S) in the sulfonate group or the
like to the whole flame retardant exceeds 10 wt %, compatibility
may be lowered, and mechanical strength of the resin composition of
matter containing the flame retardant may be hardly retained
stably. Specially, the occupancy ratio of sulfur in the sulfonate
group or the like is preferably from 0.3 wt % to 7.5 wt % both
inclusive, and is more preferably from 0.5 wt % to 5 wt % both
inclusive, since thereby high effect is obtained.
[0029] The occupancy ratio of sulfur in the sulfonate group or the
like to the flame retardant is able to be calculated by, for
example, combustion flask method. Further, for example, such a
ratio is able to be measured by treating the sulfonate group or the
like with a metal ion or the like to obtain a salt, and determining
quantity of the metal ion.
[0030] Examples of the sulfonate group or the like include a
sulfonate metal base as a sulfonate base and a group in which a
sulfonate group is neutralized with ammonia or an amine compound,
in addition to the sulfonate group. Examples of sulfonate metal
bases include a sulfonate sodium (Na) base, a sulfonate potassium
(K) base, a sulfonate lithium (Li) base, a sulfonate calcium (Ca)
base, a sulfonate magnesium (Mg) base, a sulfonate aluminum (Al)
base, a sulfonate zinc (Zn) base, a sulfonate antimony (Sb) base,
and a sulfonate tin (Sn) base. Further, examples of groups in which
a sulfonate group is neutralized with ammonia or an amine compound
include a sulfonate ammonium base. One thereof may be bonded with
the polymer, or two or more thereof may be bonded with the polymer.
Specially, as the sulfonate group or the like, the sulfonate metal
base is preferable, since thereby higher effect is obtained. As the
sulfonate metal base, specially, the sulfonate sodium base, the
sulfonate potassium base, or the sulfonate calcium base is
preferable.
[0031] In the flame retardant, the thickness of the flame retardant
factor layer 12 is voluntarily set, but the thickness ratio of the
flame retardant factor layer 12 is preferably 50% or less to the
particle diameter of the flame retardant, since thereby blocking is
inhibited and high handling characteristics are obtained. Thereby,
in the case where the flame retardant is contained in a resin
composition of matter, favorable compatibility is obtained, and
high fire retardancy is given even if the content thereof is small.
Further, in this case, moisture absorption is inhibited, and thus
long term stability of the physical properties are secured.
Specially, the thickness ratio of the flame retardant factor layer
12 is preferably 30% or less to the particle diameter of the flame
retardant, more preferably 20% or less to the particle diameter of
the flame retardant, and much more preferably 10% or less to the
particle diameter of the flame retardant, since thereby higher
effect is obtained.
[0032] The "thickness ratio of the flame retardant factor layer 12"
is able to be measured by using TOF-SIMS (Time of Flight-Secondary
Ion Mass Spectrometry). A description will be herein given of the
"thickness ratio of the flame retardant factor layer 12" with
reference to FIG. 2 by taking a case measured by using TOF-SIMS as
an example. FIG. 2(A) schematically illustrates a cross sectional
structure in the approximate center of the flame retardant. FIG.
2(B) schematically illustrates a distribution of secondary ion
intensity of sulfur element in the case that measurement is made
along dotted line X1 of FIG. 2(A). The horizontal axis represents a
scanning distance (.mu.m), and the vertical axis represents the
secondary ion intensity. In the case where the secondary ion
intensity of sulfur element is measured while the cross section of
the flame retardant is scanned along dotted line X1 of FIG. 2(A) by
using TOF-SIMS, as illustrated in FIG. 2(B), due to sulfur in the
sulfonate group or the like contained in the flame retardant factor
layer 12, two high peaks are detected. In this case, where
positions of outer edges of the flame retardant are scanning
distances X11 and X12 in a maximum value Y11 of the secondary ion
intensity of the two peaks, the particle diameter (.mu.m) of the
flame retardant is calculated from the difference (scanning
distance X12-scanning distance X11). Further, where positions of
the interface between the flame retardant factor layer 12 and the
internal layer 11 are scanning distances X21 and X22 that are
located between the scanning distances X11 and X12 and that
correspond to Y12 as a 50% value of the maximum value Y11, the
diameter (.mu.m) of the internal layer 11 is calculated from the
difference (scanning distance X22-scanning distance X21). From the
particle diameter of the flame retardant and the diameter of the
internal layer 11, the thickness ratio of the flame retardant
factor layer 12 (%)=[(the particle diameter of the flame
retardant-the diameter of the internal layer 11)/the particle
diameter of the flame retardant]*100 is calculated. It is needless
to say that the measurement method and the calculation method of
the thickness ratio of the flame retardant factor layer 12 are not
limited to the foregoing measurement method and the foregoing
calculation method, but any measurement method and any calculation
method may be used as long as calculation is enabled.
[0033] Next, a description will be given of an example of a method
of manufacturing a flame retardant in this embodiment with
reference to the flowchart of FIG. 3.
[0034] First, for example, the polymer is pulverized (step S101) to
obtain particles.
[0035] The polymer to be pulverized preferably has at least one
selected from the group consisting of aromatic rings and double
bonds, since thereby introducing the sulfonate group or the like is
facilitated in after-mentioned sulfonation treatment. The content
of the aromatic ring and the double bond in the polymer is
preferably from 1 mol % to 100 mol % both inclusive. In this case,
the sulfonate group or the like is more sufficiently introduced
than in the case that the content is out of the foregoing range.
Specifically, the content of the aromatic ring and the double bond
in the polymer is preferably from 2 mol % to 100 mol % both
inclusive, and more preferably from 50 mol % to 100 mol % both
inclusive, since thereby higher effect is obtained. It is enough
that the polymer has one of aromatic rings and double bonds, but
may have two or more thereof. In the latter case, the composition
ratio is voluntarily set, but the amount of aromatic rings is more
preferably larger in view of manufacturing.
[0036] The weight average molecular weight of the polymer is
preferably from 5000 to 20000000 both inclusive, since thereby
favorable mechanical characteristics and favorable heat resistance
are obtained in the flame retardant. More specifically, in the case
where the weight average molecular weight is under 5000, mechanical
characteristics and heat resistance in the flame retardant are
easily lowered. Meanwhile, in the case where the weight average
molecular weight exceeds 20000000, sufficient dispersiveness is
hardly obtained when the flame retardant is contained into the
resin composition of matter. Specially, the weight average
molecular weight of the polymer is preferably from 10000 to 1000000
both inclusive, and is more preferably from 50000 to 500000 both
inclusive, since thereby high effect is obtained.
[0037] Examples of the polymer include, for example, a polymer
similar to the polymer contained in the foregoing internal layer
11. Further, as the polymer, for example, a used recycled material
or mill ends generated in manufacturing a polymer may be used.
Thereby, effective use of resources and low cost are able to be
realized.
[0038] Examples of methods of pulverizing the polymer include a
frost shattering method with the use of a liquid nitrogen. The
pulverized polymer preferably contains 30 wt % or more of particles
being 60 mesh (250 .mu.m) or less in size, and contains 10 wt % or
more of particles being 80 mesh (180 .mu.m) or less in size, since
thereby the sulfonate group or the like is favorably introduced in
sulfonation treatment. More specifically, in the case where the
particle diameter is 60 mesh or more, the surface area of the
particle is decreased, and thus the introduction amount of the
sulfonate group or the like is lowered in sulfonation treatment.
Further, in this case, when the manufactured flame retardant is
contained into the resin composition of matter, there is a
possibility that dispersion is easily nonuniform, and sufficient
fire retardancy is not able to be obtained. Meanwhile, in the case
where the particle diameter is small, there is no particular
problem in sulfonation treatment. However, in this case, since the
particle diameter of the flame retardant is small, dust
countermeasure is desirably taken according to needs. Specially, in
the particle, it is preferable that 50 wt % or more of the
particles being 60 mesh or less in size is contained, and 30 wt %
or more of the particles being 80 mesh or less in size is
contained. It is more preferable that 70 wt % or more of the
particles being 60 mesh or less in size is contained, and 50 wt %
or more of the particles being 80 mesh or less in size is
contained, since thereby higher effect is obtained.
[0039] In the case where a particulate polymer is able to be
prepared, pulverization treatment is not needed. In this case, when
the polymer is manufactured from a monomer, in various
polymerization methods (for example, suspension polymerization,
mass polymerization, pearl polymerization and the like), particle
production may be made according to the conditions in the
polymerization step to adjust the particle diameter.
[0040] Subsequently, whether or not the moisture content of the
pulverized polymer is 3.5 wt % or less is checked (step S102). In
the case where the moisture content exceeds 3.5 wt % (N of S102),
the pulverized polymer is dried (step S103), and after that, the
moisture content is rechecked. The moisture content of the
pulverized polymer is preferably 3.5 wt % or less, since the
sulfonate group or the like is able to be introduced favorably and
stably in sulfonation treatment. More specifically, in the case
where the moisture content exceeds 3.5 wt %, moisture is adhered to
the surface of the particulate polymer, and water coat is formed.
Thereby, a sulfonating agent to be used in sulfonation treatment
and water are previously reacted, reaction with polymer is
inhibited, and thereby the sulfonate group or the like is hardly
introduced. Thus, sulfonation treatment varies according to each
particle of the polymer, and there is a possibility that sufficient
fire retardancy is not obtained in a resin composition of matter
including the flame retardant. Specially, the moisture content is
preferably 2 wt % or less, and more preferably 1 wt % or less,
since thereby high effect is obtained.
[0041] Subsequently, in the case where the moisture content of the
pulverized polymer is 3.5 wt % or less (Y of S102), sulfonation
treatment is performed for the particulate polymer by using the
sulfonating agent (step S104). Thereby, the flame retardant factor
layer 12 is formed in the surface layer section of the particulate
polymer.
[0042] Examples of the sulfonating agents include sulfur trioxide,
fuming sulfuric acid, chlorosulfonic acid, concentrated sulfuric
acid, and polyalkylbenzene sulfone acid. One thereof may be used
singly, or a plurality thereof may be used by mixture. Further, as
the sulfonating agent, a complex with a Lewis base such as alkyl
ester phosphate and dioxane may be used. In the case where the
polymer has a substituent group that is easily hydrolyzed such as a
cyano group, if moisture is contained in the sulfonating agent,
hydrolysis reaction (side reaction) is initiated independently from
sulfonation reaction (main reaction). Thereby, hydrolysis reaction
of the substituent group such as a cyano group is promoted. That
is, by inhibiting sulfonation reaction, the introduction amount of
the sulfonate group or the like is lowered. Thus, as the
sulfonating agent, an agent in which the amount of moisture is
small as much as possible is preferable. Specifically, sulfur
trioxide, fuming sulfuric acid, chlorosulfonic acid, concentrated
sulfuric acid, polyalkylbenzene sulfone acid or the like is
preferable. A rough standard of the moisture content in the
sulfonating agent is, for example, 3 wt % or less, and is
preferably 1 wt % or less.
[0043] The method of sulfonation treatment is able to be
voluntarily set as long as a method is able to realize reaction
between the particulate polymer and the sulfonating agent. For
example, examples thereof include the following first to third
methods. In the first method, for example, the particulate polymer
is dispersed into an organic solvent. After that, a given amount of
a sulfonating agent (for example, a liquid sulfonating agent or a
gas sulfonating agent) is added to initiate sulfonation reaction.
In the second method, for example, the particulate polymer is
directly put into the sulfonating agent to initiate sulfonation
reaction. In the third method, for example, sulfonation gas (for
example, sulfur trioxide: SO.sub.3 gas) is directly sprayed to the
particulate polymer, and thereby sulfonation reaction is initiated.
Specially, the first method or the third method is preferable. In
particular, in the light of not using an organic solvent (for
realizing environmental conservation and low cost), the third
method is more preferable.
[0044] In performing sulfonation treatment, the occupancy ratio of
sulfur in the sulfonate group or the like to the whole flame
retardant is preferably adjusted to from 0.1 wt % to 10 wt % both
inclusive. Otherwise, the thickness ratio of the flame retardant
factor layer 12 to the particle diameter of the flame retardant is
preferably adjusted to 50% or less. Thereby, high effect in the
flame retardant is obtained. In this case, the introduction ratio
of the sulfonate group or the like is able to be voluntarily
adjusted by the particle diameter (surface area) of the polymer,
the additive amount of the sulfonating agent, time for sulfonation
reaction, temperature or pressure at the time of sulfonation
reaction, or type or the additive amount of Lewis base or the like.
Specially, adjustment is preferably made by the particle diameter
of the polymer, the additive amount of the sulfonating agent, time
for sulfonation reaction, reaction temperature and the like.
[0045] Subsequently, the sulfur portion is measured to check
whether or not sulfonation treatment has been favorably performed,
or whether or not a given amount of the sulfonate group or the like
has been introduced (step S105). At this time, it is possible that
the sulfur portion is measured or the sulfur portion is not
measured. In the case where the sulfur portion is not measured,
measurement may be made after the flame retardant is completed.
After that, the polymer in which the flame retardant factor layer
12 is formed is provided with neutralization treatment by using an
alkali water solution (step S106). Thereby, the sulfonating agent
is neutralized, and sulfonation reaction is stopped.
[0046] Finally, separation from the neutralization solution is made
by filtration or the like and thereby the resultant is taken out,
and then is dried (step S107). Thereby, the foregoing flame
retardant is completed.
[0047] In the flame retardant, for example, in the case where
temperature is increased to the degree that flame is approximated,
binding between the polymer and the sulfonate group or the
sulfonate base is split off, and radical is generated. Thereby, in
the case where the flame retardant is contained in the resin
composition of matter, the resultant becomes hardly fired. Further,
in this flame retardant, the sulfonate group or the like is
introduced to the surface layer section. Thus, in the case of being
exposed under high humidity environment, moisture is hardly
penetrated into the internal section, and moisture absorption is
inhibited. Thereby, particles of the flame retardant are hardly
adhered to each other. Thus, in the case where the flame retardant
is contained in the resin composition of matter, handling
characteristics and dispersiveness are improved. Further, in the
formed resin composition of matter, compatibility is improved, and
moisture is hardly absorbed.
[0048] The flame retardant includes the particulate polymer and the
flame retardant factor layer 12 formed by binding at least one of
the sulfone group and the sulfone base to the surface layer section
of the polymer. Thus, compared to a flame retardant in which the
sulfone group or the like is penetrated into the internal section
of the particles and is introduced therein entirely, the flame
retardant of this embodiment is able to more contribute to
improving fire retardancy of the resin composition of matter with a
small additive amount. Further, even if being exposed under high
humidity environment, blocking is inhibited. Thus, in the case
where the flame retardant is contained in the resin composition of
matter, moisture absorption is inhibited, resulting in contribution
to securing fire retardancy stably for a long time. Further, in
this case, the flame retardant is also able to contribute to
securing the physical properties such as mechanical strength stably
for a long time.
[0049] Further, in the case where the polymer has at least one of
aromatic rings and double bonds, or contains a thermoplastic resin,
high effect is obtained.
[0050] Further, in the case where the occupancy ratio of sulfur in
at least one of the sulfonate group and the sulfonate base to the
whole flame retardant is from 0.1 wt % to 5 wt % both inclusive, or
the thickness ratio of the flame retardant factor layer 12 is 50%
or less, higher effect is obtained.
[0051] According to the method of manufacturing the flame
retardant, the moisture content is 3.5 wt % or less, and the
particulate polymer is sulfonated. Thus, inhibiting sulfonation
reaction resulting from a state that moisture is adhered to the
surface of the particulate polymer is inhibited. Thereby, the flame
retardant factor layer 12 is able to be formed stably.
[0052] Next, a description will be given of a resin composition of
matter of this embodiment.
[0053] In the resin composition of matter, the foregoing flame
retardant is contained in the resin. The resin composition of
matter is used for, for example, home electric appliances, auto
parts, business equipment, stationery, groceries, architectural
materials, fibers and the like.
[0054] The resin is able to be set voluntarily. Specific examples
thereof include polycarbonate (PC), an
acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer (ABS), polystyrene (PS),
a styrene-butadiene copolymer (HIPS: high impact polystyrene), an
acrylonitrile-styrene copolymer (AS), polyvinyl chloride (PVC),
polyphenylene oxide (PPO), polyethylene terephthalate (PET),
polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polysulfone (PSF), thermoplastic
elastomer (TPE), polybutadiene (PB), polyisoprene (PI), nitrile
rubber (acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber), nylon, and polyactic acid
(PLA). One thereof. may be used singly, or a mixture (alloy)
obtained by mixing a plurality thereof may be used. Specially, one
or more of the foregoing resins are preferably contained at a ratio
of 5 wt % or more. In particular, polycarbonate, an
acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer, an acrylonitrile-styrene
copolymer, a PC/TPE alloy, an ABS/PC alloy, an AS/PC alloy, a
PC/PBT alloy, a PC/HIPS alloy, a PC/PLA alloy, a PVC/PC alloy, a
PET/PC alloy, a PPO/PC alloy, a HIPS/PPO alloy, a HIPS/ABS/PET
alloy, a PET/PBT alloy or the like is preferable. Specially,
polycarbonate or an alloy of a thermoplastic polymer containing
polycarbonate is more preferable. In the case where the foregoing
material is contained together with the aforementioned flame
retardant, sufficient effect is obtained.
[0055] Further, as the resin, in addition to the foregoing
material, a used recycled material or mill ends generated in
manufacturing a resin may be used. Thereby, effective use of
resources and low cost are able to be realized.
[0056] The flame retardant contains the foregoing flame retardant.
Thereby, even if the content thereof is small, fire retardancy is
improved, and the fire retardancy is secured stably for a long
time. Herewith, even if being exposed under high humidity
environment, the inherent physical properties of the resin are
retained stably for a long time without ruining the inherent
physical properties of the resin. The content of the foregoing
flame retardant is preferably from 0.001 wt % to 10 wt % both
inclusive, since thereby sufficient effect is obtained. More
specifically, there is a tendency as follows. In the case where the
content of the foregoing flame retardant is smaller than 0.001 wt
%, it becomes difficult to stably demonstrate fire retardancy.
Meanwhile, in the case where the content of the foregoing flame
retardant is larger than 10 wt %, fire retardancy is lowered.
Specially, the content of the flame retardant is preferably from
0.01 wt % to 5 wt % both inclusive, and is more preferably from 0.1
wt % to 3 wt % both inclusive, since thereby high effect is
obtained.
[0057] The flame retardant may contain other flame retardant
according to needs in addition to the foregoing flame retardant.
Examples of other flame retardants include known flame retardants
such as an organophosphate ester system flame retardant, a
halogenated ester phosphate system flame retardant, an inorganic
phosphorus system flame retardant, a halogenated bisphenol system
flame retardant, a halide system flame retardant, an antimony
system flame retardant, a nitrogen system flame retardant, a boron
system flame retardant, a metal salt system flame retardant, an
inorganic system flame retardant, and a silicon system flame
retardant. One thereof may be used singly, or a plurality thereof
may be used by mixture. Specific examples of these other flame
retardants are as follows.
[0058] Examples of organophosphate ester system flame retardants
include triphenyl phosphate, methylneobenzyl phosphate,
pentaerythritol diethyl diphosphate, methylneopentyl phosphate,
phenyl neopentyl phosphate, pentaerythritol diphenyl diphosphate,
dicyclopentyl hypodiphosphate, dineopentyl hypophosphate, phenyl
pyrocatechol phosphate, ethyl pyrocatechol phosphate, and
dipyrocatechol hypodiphosphate. One thereof may be used singly, or
a plurality thereof may be used by mixture.
[0059] Examples of halogenated ester phosphate system flame
retardants include tris(.beta.-chloroethyl)phosphate,
tris(dichloropropyl)phosphate, tris(.beta.-bromoethyl)phosphate,
tris(dibromopropyl)phosphate, tris(chloropropyl)phosphate,
tris(dibromophenyl)phosphate, tris(tribromophenyl)phosphate,
tris(tribromoneopentyl)phosphate, condensed polyphosphate, and
condensed polyphosphonate. One thereof may be used singly, or a
plurality thereof may be used by mixture.
[0060] Examples of inorganic phosphorus system flame retardants
include red phosphorus and inorganic phosphate. One thereof may be
used singly, or a plurality thereof may be used by mixture.
[0061] Examples of halogenated bisphenol system flame retardants
include tetrabromo bisphenol A or an oligomer thereof and
bis(bromoethyl ether) tetrabromo bisphenol A. One thereof may be
used singly, or a plurality thereof may be used by mixture.
[0062] Examples of halide system flame retardants include
decabromodiphenyl ether, hexabromobenzene, hexabromo cyclododecane,
tetrabromo phthalic anhydride, (tetrabromo bisphenol) epoxy
oligomer, hexabromo biphenyl ether, tribromo phenol, dibromo cresyl
glycidyl ether, decabromo diphenyl oxide, halogenated
polycarbonate, a halogenated polycarbonate copolymer, halogenated
polystyrene, halogenated polyolefin, chlorinated paraffin, and
perchlorocyclodecane. One thereof may be used singly, or a
plurality thereof may be used by mixture.
[0063] Examples of antimony system flame retardants include
antimony trioxide, antimony tetroxide, antimony pentoxide, and
sodium antimonate. One thereof may be used singly, or a plurality
thereof may be used by mixture.
[0064] Examples of nitrogen system flame retardants include
melamine, an alkyl group, aromatic substituted melamine, melamine
cyanurate, isocyanurate, melamine phosphate, triazine, a guanidine
compound, urea, various cyanuric acid derivatives, and a phosphagen
compound. One thereof may be used singly, or a plurality thereof
may be used by mixture.
[0065] Examples of boron system flame retardants include zinc
borate, zinc metaborate, and barium borate. One thereof may be used
singly, or a plurality thereof may be used by mixture.
[0066] Examples of metal salt system flame retardants include an
alkali metal salt and an alkali earth metal salt such as perfluoro
alkane sulfonate, alkyl benzene sulfonate, halogenated alkyl
benzene sulfonate, alkyl sulfonate, and naphthalene sulfonate. One
thereof may be used singly, or a plurality thereof may be used by
mixture.
[0067] Examples of inorganic system flame retardants include
magnesium hydroxide, aluminum hydroxide, barium hydroxide, calcium
hydroxide, dolomite, hydrotalcite, basic magnesium carbonate,
zirconium hydroxide, or a hydrate of an inorganic metal compound
such as a hydrate of tin oxide; a metal oxide such as aluminum
oxide, iron oxide, titanium oxide, manganese oxide, magnesium
oxide, zirconium oxide, zinc oxide, molybdenum oxide, cobalt oxide,
bismuth oxide, chromium oxide, tin oxide, nickel oxide, copper
oxide, and tungsten oxide; metal powder such as aluminum powder,
iron (Fe) powder, copper (Cu) powder, nickel (Ni) powder, titanium
(Ti) powder, manganese (Mn) powder, tin powder, zinc powder,
molybdenum (Mo) powder, cobalt (Co) powder, bismuth (Bi) powder,
chromium (Cr) powder, tungsten (W) powder, and antimony powder;
carbonate such as zinc carbonate, magnesium carbonate, calcium
carbonate, and barium carbonate; and talc such as hydrous silicate
of magnesium. One thereof may be used singly, or a plurality
thereof may be used by mixture. Specially, in light of fire
retardancy and economy, magnesium hydroxide, aluminum hydroxide,
talc, basic magnesium carbonate, mica, hydrotalcite, aluminum metal
powder and the like are preferable. Since a used recycled material
or mill ends generated in manufacturing a polymer contain the
foregoing inorganic flame retardant, such a used recycled material
or such mill ends may be used as an inorganic flame retardant.
[0068] Examples of silicon system flame retardants include a
polyorgano siloxane resin (silicon, organic silicate or the like)
and silica. One thereof may be used singly, or a plurality thereof
may be used by mixture. Examples of polyorgano siloxane resins
include a polymethyl ethyl siloxane, a polydimethyl siloxane resin,
a polymethyl phenyl siloxane resin, a polydiphenyl siloxane resin,
a polydiethyl siloxane resin, a polyethyl phenyl siloxane resin,
and a mixture thereof. An alkyl group section of the foregoing
polyorgano siloxane resin may be, for example, an alkoxy group, a
hydroxyl group, an amino group, a carboxyl group, a silanol group,
a mercapto group, an epoxy group, a vinyl group, an aryloxy group,
a polyoxyalkylene group, a hydrogen group, or a functional group of
halogen or the like. Otherwise, the alkyl group may further have a
functional group. Specially, the alkyl group, the alkoxy group, the
hydroxyl group, the vinyl group or the like is preferably
contained. The weight average molecular weight of the polyorgano
siloxane resin is preferably 100 or more, and is more preferably
from 500 to 5000000 both inclusive. Further, the form thereof may
be, for example, any of oil, varnish, gum, powder, and pellet. The
silica is, for example, preferably provided with surface treatment
with a silane coupling agent of a hydrocarbon compound.
[0069] The type and the necessary fire retardancy level of other
flame retardants vary according to the resin type. The content of
other flame retardant is generally from 0.001 wt % to 50 wt % both
inclusive to a resin, preferably from 0.01 wt % to 30 wt % both
inclusive to a resin, and more preferably from 0.1 wt % to 10 wt %
both inclusive to a resin.
[0070] Further, the resin composition of matter may contain an
inorganic filler, a drip inhibitor or the like as an additive
according to needs in addition to the foregoing resin and the like.
Thereby, fire retardancy and mechanical strength are further
improved.
[0071] The inorganic filler contributes to improving mechanical
strength and improving fire retardancy. Examples of inorganic
fillers include, for example, known materials. Specific examples
thereof include crystalline silica, molten silica, alumina,
magnesia, talc, mica, kaolin, clay, diatom earth, silicate calcium,
titanium oxide, glass fiber, calcium fluoride, calcium sulfate,
barium sulfate, calcium phosphate, carbon fiber, carbon nanotube,
and potassium titanate fiber. One thereof may be used singly, or a
plurality thereof may be used by mixture. Specially, talc, mica,
carbon, glass, or carbon nanotube is preferable. The content of the
inorganic filler in the resin composition of matter is preferably
from 0.1 wt % to 90 wt % both inclusive, more preferably from 0.5
wt % to 50 wt % both inclusive, and much more preferably from 1 wt
% to 30 wt % both inclusive, since thereby high effect is obtained.
More specifically, in the case where the content of the inorganic
filler in the resin composition of matter is smaller than 0.1 wt %,
effect of improving rigidity and fire retardancy of the resin
composition of matter is easily lowered. Meanwhile, in the case
where the content of the inorganic filler in the resin composition
of matter is larger than 90 wt %, fluidity of the resin composition
of matter molten in injection molding may be lowered or mechanical
strength of the manufactured resin composition of matter may be
lowered.
[0072] The drip inhibitor is intended to inhibit drip phenomenon at
the time of combustion. Examples of drip inhibitors include a
fluoroolefin resin. Specific examples of the fluoroolefin resins
include a difluoropropylene polymer, a tetrafluoroethylene polymer,
a tetrafluoroethylene-hexafluoropropylene copolymer, and a
copolymer of tetrafluoroethylene and an ethylene system monomer.
One thereof may be used singly, or a plurality thereof may be used
by mixture. Specially, the tetrafluoro ethylene polymer is
preferable, the average molecular weight is preferably 50000 or
more, and more preferably from 100000 to 20000000 both inclusive.
As the fluoroolefin resin, a fluoroolefin resin having fibrillar
formation ability is more preferable. The content of the
fluoroolefin resin in the resin composition of matter is preferably
from 0.01 wt % to 5 wt % both inclusive, more preferably from 0.01
wt % to 2 wt % both inclusive, and much more preferably from 0.1 wt
% to 0.5 wt % both inclusive, since thereby higher effect is
obtained. More specifically, in the case where the content thereof
is smaller than 0.001 wt %, drip phenomenon is hardly inhibited.
Meanwhile, in the case where the content thereof is larger than 5
wt %, effect to inhibit drip phenomenon is saturated, and
accordingly the cost becomes high, and mechanical strength and
resin flowability are easily lowered.
[0073] Further, the resin composition of matter may contain, for
example, an antioxidant (a phenol system antioxidant, a phosphorus
system antioxidant, and sulfur system antioxidant), an antistatic
additive, an ultraviolet absorber, a light stabilizer, a
plasticizer, a solubilizer, a colorant (pigment and dye), an
antibacterial agent, a hydrolysis inhibitor, a surface treatment
agent or the like in addition to the foregoing additive. Thereby,
injection molding property, impact resistance, appearance, heat
resistance, weather resistance, rigidity and the like are
improved.
[0074] The resin composition of matter is able to be manufactured
as follows.
[0075] First, for example, the flame retardant including the
internal layer 11 and the flame retardant factor layer 12 is
manufactured by the foregoing manufacturing method. Subsequently,
the resin, the flame retardant, and an additive and the like
according to needs are mixed. At this time, for example, these
materials are approximately uniformly dispersed by a kneading
equipment such as a tumbler, a blender, a mixer, a push bench, and
a kneading machine. Subsequently, the mixture is formed into a
given shape (for example, a package or a member for various
products such as home electric appliances, auto parts, information
equipment, business equipment, telephones, stationery, furniture,
and fiber) by a molding method such as injection molding, injection
compression molding, extrusion molding, blow molding, vacuum
molding, press molding, foam molding, and supercritical molding.
Accordingly, the foregoing resin composition of matter is
completed.
[0076] In the resin composition of matter, the foregoing flame
retardant including the internal layer 11 and the flame retardant
factor layer 12 is contained. Thus, when flame is approximated,
temperature is increased and thereby the flame retardant is
thermally decomposed. At this time, binding between the polymer and
the sulfonate group or the sulfonate base is split off, and radical
is generated. The radical is reacted to the resin, and
carbonization (charring) at the section contacted with flame is
promoted. A char layer generated by the carbonization covers the
resin composition of matter, and thereby outside oxygen is blocked.
Accordingly, combustion is stopped.
[0077] According to the resin composition of matter, the foregoing
flame retardant including the internal layer 11 and the flame
retardant factor layer 12 is contained. Thus, fire retardancy is
able to be improved. Further, even if being exposed under high
humidity environment, moisture absorption is inhibited, and fire
retardancy is able to be secured stably for a long time. In this
case, the inherent physical properties of the resin are also
retained stably for a long time. Further, in the case where the
content of the flame retardant is from 0.001 wt % to 10 wt % both
inclusive, higher effect is able to be obtained.
[0078] Further, in the case where polycarbonate or a thermoplastic
polymer mixture containing polycarbonate is contained as a resin,
sufficient effect is able to be obtained.
[0079] Other action and other effect of the resin composition of
matter are similar to those described in the foregoing flame
retardant (flame retardant including the internal layer 11 and the
flame retardant factor layer 12).
[0080] According to the method of manufacturing a resin composition
of matter, the flame retardant including the internal layer 11 and
the flame retardant factor layer 12 is contained in the resin
composition of matter. Thus, the resin composition of matter which
has superior fire retardancy and in which the fire retardancy is
secured stably for a long time is able to be stably
manufactured.
EXAMPLES
[0081] A description will be described in detail of examples of the
present invention.
Example 1-1
[0082] The flame retardant of FIG. 1 was fabricated according to
the flow of FIG. 3.
[0083] First, as a polymer, polystyrene (PS) pellets (weight
average molecular weight: 210000, styrene unit: 100 mol %) were
frozen-shattered with the use of liquid nitrogen by a laboratory
crusher. After that, the resultant was powdered thorough 80 mesh
screen. At this time, the moisture content in the powder matter was
3.9 wt %. The resultant was dried for 1 hour at 80 deg C. by a
reduced-pressure dryer to obtain a powder matter having a moisture
content of 0.12 wt %. The powder matter contained 99 wt % of
particles being 80 mesh or less in size.
[0084] Subsequently, sulfonation treatment was performed by using
the dried powder matter. In this case, 20 g of the powder matter
was put into an egg plant-like flask, attached to a rotary
evaporator, heated to 60 deg C., and rotated. At this time, the
powder matter became a fluid in the egg plant-like flask by being
rotated by the rotary evaporator. Next, inside of the flask was
deaerated by a vacuum pump to hermetically seal the flask.
Subsequently, by operating a valve, SO.sub.3 gas was sent from a
tank (filling amount: 1 g) of sulfur trioxide (SO.sub.3) as a
sulfonating agent that had been previously heated to 60 deg C. into
the flask. At this time, due to injection of the SO.sub.3 gas, the
pressure inside the flask immediately became normal pressure.
However, as reaction was progressed, the pressure inside the flask
gradually became back to the reduced pressure state. Thus, the
SO.sub.3 gas was injected again. By repeating such an operation
several times, 1 g in total of the SO.sub.3 gas was injected into
the flask, and reaction was made for 4 hours at 60 deg C., and
thereby a reactant was obtained. After that, the SO.sub.3 gas in
the flask was substituted with nitrogen.
[0085] Subsequently, a potassium hydrate water solution was put
into the flask to neutralize the reactant (adjusted to pH7.0).
Finally, the reactant neutralized was filtered with a glass filter,
and the filtered resultant was washed with water. After filtering
was made again, the resultant was dried by a circulation type drier
(100 deg C.) to obtain 21 g of a flame retardant (white
powder).
[0086] For the flame retardant, the sulfur portion was analyzed. In
result, the occupancy ratio of sulfur in the sulfonate group or the
like to the flame retardant (S ratio in the sulfonate group or the
like) was 1.5 wt %. Further, after a cross section of the flame
retardant was measured by using TOF-SIMS, the result illustrated in
FIG. 4 was obtained. FIG. 4(A) illustrates a result obtained by
imaging a cross section of the flame retardant from a secondary ion
intensity of sulfur element in the cross section of the flame
retardant. FIG. 4(B) schematically illustrates FIG. 4(A). FIG. 4(C)
illustrates a distribution of the secondary ion intensity of sulfur
element in the region sandwiched between two green lines, that is,
in the region sandwiched between lines D1 and D2 of FIG. 4(B). The
scanning distances X11 and X12 illustrated in FIG. 4(C) represent
outer edges of the flame retardant, and the scanning distances X21
and X22 represent positions of an interface between the flame
retardant factor layer 12 and the internal layer 11. Accordingly,
it was confirmed that the flame retardant factor layer 12 was
formed by binding the potassium sulfonate base to the surface layer
section of the flame retardant. Further, in this case, the
thickness ratio of the flame retardant factor layer 12 was 6.7% to
the particle diameter of the flame retardant.
[0087] Further, the foregoing analysis of sulfur portion and the
foregoing measurement by using TOF-SIMS were similarly performed in
the following examples and the following comparative examples.
Example 1-2
[0088] A procedure similar to that of Example 1-1 was performed,
except that an acrylonitrile-styrene copolymer (AS) was used as a
polymer. At this time, frost shattering was performed by using
recycled pellet of transparent reel waste material of a used
business video cassette tape (weight average molecular weight
(polystyrene conversion: 110000, acrylonitrile unit: 43 mol %,
styrene unit: 57 mol %) as AS. In result, the moisture content of
the obtained powder matter was 5.7 wt %. The resultant was dried
for 1 hour at 100 deg C. by the reduced-pressure dryer to obtain
powder matter having a moisture content of 0.25 wt %. The powder
matter contained 98 wt % of particles being 80 mesh or less in
size. By using the dried powder matter, sulfonation treatment was
performed by a procedure similar to that of Example 1-1. After
that, a flame retardant (pale yellow powder) was obtained.
[0089] For the flame retardant, the sulfur portion was analyzed. In
result, the S ratio in the sulfonate group or the like was 0.87 wt
%. Further, after a cross section of the flame retardant was
measured by using TOF-SIMS, it was confirmed that the flame
retardant factor layer 12 was formed by binding the potassium
sulfonate base to the surface layer section of the flame retardant.
Further, in this case, the thickness ratio of the flame retardant
factor layer 12 was 8.5% to the particle diameter of the flame
retardant.
Example 1-3
[0090] A procedure similar to that of Example 1-1 was performed,
except that recycled pellets of recycled foamed polystyrene as PS
(weight average molecular weight: 220000, styrene unit: 100 mol %)
was used as a polymer. At this time, after frost shattering was
performed, the moisture content of the obtained powder matter was
3.4 wt %. The powder matter contained 99 wt % of particles being 80
mesh or less in size. By using the powder matter, sulfonation
treatment was performed by a procedure similar to that of Example
1-1. After that, a flame retardant (pale yellow powder) was
obtained.
[0091] For the flame retardant, the sulfur portion was analyzed. In
result, the S ratio in the sulfonate group or the like was 0.63 wt
%. Further, after a cross section of the flame retardant was
measured by using TOF-SIMS, it was confirmed that the flame
retardant factor layer 12 was formed by binding the potassium
sulfonate base to the surface layer section of the flame retardant.
Further, in this case, the thickness ratio of the flame retardant
factor layer 12 was 4.8% to the particle diameter of the flame
retardant.
Comparative Example 1-1
[0092] A flame retardant was fabricated by dissolving a polymer in
an organic solvent to perform sulfonation treatment. At this time,
the dried powder matter (moisture content: 0.12 wt %) of Example
1-1 was used as a polymer. In this case, 20 g of the powder matter
was put into a round flask containing 180 g of 1,2-dichloroethane
as an organic solvent, and dissolved. A complex of 150 g of
1,2-dichloroethane, 6.5 g of triethyl phosphate, and 15 g of liquid
SO.sub.3 was dropped into the round flask for 1.5 hours at room
temperature. After dropping, the resultant was matured at 60 deg C.
for 2 hours. Thereby, sulfonation treatment was performed.
Subsequently, the reactant was taken out and dissolved in methanol.
After that, the resultant was neutralize with the use of a
potassium hydroxide water solution. By adding diethyl ether to the
solution, precipitation was made to obtain a white solid. After
that, the resultant was dried by a circulation type drier (100 deg
C.) to obtain 25 g of a flame retardant.
[0093] For the flame retardant, the sulfur portion was analyzed. In
result, the S ratio in the sulfonate group or the like was 13.2 wt
%. Further, after a cross section of the flame retardant was
measured by using TOF-SIMS, the result illustrated in FIG. 5 was
obtained. FIG. 5 illustrates a result obtained by imaging a cross
section of the flame retardant from a secondary ion intensity of
sulfur element in the cross section of the flame retardant. Each
orange image illustrates each particle. Accordingly, it was
confirmed that the potassium sulfonate base was introduced into the
whole flame retardant, and the flame retardant factor layer 12 and
the internal layer 11 were not formed. That is, the ratio of a
region into which the potassium sulfonate base was introduced was
100% to the particle diameter of the flame retardant.
Comparative Example 1-2
[0094] A commercially available polystyrene sulfonated soda (weight
average molecular weight: 70000) was used as a flame retardant. For
the flame retardant, the sulfur portion was analyzed. In result,
the S ratio in the sulfonate group or the like was 15.3 wt %.
Further, after a cross section of the flame retardant was measured
by using TOF-SIMS, it was confirmed that the sodium sulfonate base
was introduced into the whole flame retardant, and the flame
retardant factor layer 12 and the internal layer 11 were not
formed. That is, the ratio of a region into which the sodium
sulfonate base was introduced was 100% to the particle diameter of
the flame retardant.
Comparative Example 1-3
[0095] A procedure similar to that of Example 1-1 was performed,
except that the powder matter before being dried (moisture content:
3.9 wt %) was used. For the obtained flame retardant (white
powder), the sulfur portion was analyzed. In result, the S ratio in
the sulfonate group or the like was 0.08 wt %. Further, after a
cross section of the flame retardant was measured by using TOF-SIMS
in the same manner as that of Example 1-1, sulfur secondary ion was
not detected, and introduction of the potassium sulfonate base was
not confirmed.
Comparative Example 1-4
[0096] A procedure similar to that of Example 1-2 was performed,
except that the powder matter before being dried (moisture content:
5.7 wt %) was used. For the obtained flame retardant (white
powder), the sulfur portion was analyzed. In result, the S ratio in
the sulfonate group or the like was 0.04 wt %. Further, after a
cross section of the flame retardant was measured by using
TOF-SIMS, sulfur secondary ion was not detected, and introduction
of the potassium sulfonate base was not confirmed.
[0097] For the flame retardants of Examples 1-1 to 1-3 and
Comparative examples 1-1 to 1-4, hygroscopic test was performed.
The results illustrated in Table 1 were obtained.
[0098] In performing the hygroscopic test, after the flame
retardants were left for 24 hours at room temperature, fluidity and
adhesion condition between particles were evaluated. If no change
was observed, it was evaluated as "o." If blocking was generated,
it was evaluated as "x." Further, the weight before being left and
the weight after being left were measured, and the weight increase
ratio (%) was obtained.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Powder matter S ratio in Thickness
Hygroscopic property Moisture Sulfonation sulfonate ratio of flame
Fluidity Weight content treatment group or the retardant factor or
the increase Polymer (wt %) method like (wt %) layer (%) like ratio
(%) Example 1-1 PS 0.12 FIG. 3 1.5 6.7 .smallcircle. <1 Example
1-2 AS 0.25 FIG. 3 0.87 8.5 .smallcircle. <1 Example 1-3 PS 3.4
FIG. 3 0.63 4.8 .smallcircle. <1 Comparative PS 0.12 dissolved
in 13.2 -- x .gtoreq.10 example 1-1 organic solvent Comparative PS
-- -- 15.3 -- x .gtoreq.10 example 1-2 Comparative PS 3.9 FIG. 3
0.08 -- .smallcircle. <1 example 1-3 Comparative AS 5.7 FIG. 3
0.04 -- .smallcircle. <1 example 1-4
[0099] As illustrated in FIG. 1, in Examples 1-1 to 1-3 in which
the sulfonate group or the like was introduced onto the surface
layer section, blocking is not generated, and the weight increase
ratio was under 1%. Meanwhile, in Comparative examples 1-1 and 1-2
in which the sulfonate group or the like was introduced into the
inside of the particles, blocking was generated and the weight
increase ratio was 10% or more. The result showed the following.
That is, in the case where the sulfonate group or the like was
introduced into the surface layer section, moisture absorption was
inhibited without relation to the polymer type. Meanwhile, in the
case where the sulfonate group or the like was introduced into the
inside of the particles, moisture becomes easily absorbed, and thus
particles became easily adhered to each other.
[0100] Further, in sulfonation treatment, in Examples 1-1 to 1-3 in
which the flame retardant was fabricated by using the powder matter
with a moisture content of 3.5 wt % or less, the flame retardant
factor layer 12 was formed. However, in Comparative examples 1-3
and 1-4 in which the flame retardant was fabricated by using the
powder matter with a moisture content exceeding 3.5 wt %, the flame
retardant factor layer 12 was not formed. The result showed that in
the case where the moisture content exceeded 3.5 wt % or more,
moisture adhered to the powder matter surface inhibits sulfonation
reaction without relation to the polymer type. In Comparative
examples 1-3 and 1-4, since the sulfonate group or the like was not
almost introduced, blocking was not generated, and the weight
increase ratio was under 1%.
[0101] Accordingly, it was confirmed that in the flame retardant
containing the particulate polymer, when at least one of the
sulfonate group and the sulfonate base was bonded to the surface
layer section of the polymer to form the flame retardant factor
layer 12, moisture absorption was inhibited. In this case, it was
confirmed that if the moisture content was 3.5 wt % or less and the
particulate polymer was sulfonated, the flame retardant of the
present invention was able to be manufactured. Furthermore, it was
indicated that in this case, the flame retardant of the present
invention was able to be manufactured stably with no variation.
[0102] Though not shown in these examples, in the case where the
occupancy ratio of sulfur in the sulfonate group or the like to the
whole flame retardant exceeded 5 wt %, or the thickness ratio of
the flame retardant factor layer 12 exceeded 50%, blocking was not
generated. However, it was confirmed that in the case where the
occupancy ratio of sulfur in the sulfonate group or the like to the
flame retardant was 5 wt % or less, or the thickness ratio of the
flame retardant factor layer 12 was 50% or less, moisture
absorption was more inhibited, and stability was high.
Example 2-1
[0103] As a specific example of the resin composition of matter
described in the foregoing embodiment, pellets and a strip specimen
composed of the resin composition of matter were fabricated.
[0104] 99.5 parts by mass of versatile grade middle molecular
weight polycarbonate (PC (M), weight average molecular weight (GPC
method, polyethylene conversion): 43,000) as a resin, 0.2 parts by
mass of the flame retardant of Example 1-1 (sulfone system), and
0.3 parts by mass of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) having
fibrillar formation ability as a drip inhibitor were mixed to
prepare a resin composition of matter precursor. Subsequently, the
resin composition of matter precursor was supplied to a push bench,
kneaded at given temperature, and thereby was formed into pellets.
Subsequently, the pellets were put into an injection molding
machine and was injection-molded at given temperature. Thereby, a
strip specimen composed of the resin composition of matter having a
thickness of 1.6 mm was completed.
Examples 2-2 and 2-3
[0105] A procedure similar to that of Example 2-1 was performed,
except that the flame retardant of Example 1-2 (sulfone system:
Example 2-2) or the flame retardant of Example 1-3 (sulfone system:
Example 2-3) was used instead of the flame retardant of Example
1-1.
Example 2-4
[0106] A procedure similar to that of Example 1-1 was performed,
except that as a resin, low molecular weight polycarbonate (PC (L))
of a waste DVD (with used coating film, weight average molecular
weight (GPC method, polyethylene conversion): 32,000) was added. At
this time, the composition of the resin composition of matter
precursor (PC (M):PC (L):sulfone system:PTFE) was 69.5:30:0.2:0.3
at a weight ratio.
Example 2-5
[0107] A procedure similar to that of Example 2-2 was performed,
except that a compound-use grade acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene
copolymer (ABS, acrylonitrile:polybutadiene:styrene=17:32:51 at a
weight ratio) as a resin, a silicon flame retardant (Si system:
methylphenyl solid silicon resin), and talc as an inorganic filler
were added to change the composition of the resin composition of
matter precursor. At this time, the composition of the resin
composition of matter precursor (PC (M):ABS:sulfone system: Si
system: PTFE:talc) was 82.5:5:1.0:1.0:0.5:10 at a weight ratio.
Example 2-6
[0108] A procedure similar to that of Example 2-5 was performed,
except that a low molecular PC as a resin was added to change the
composition of the resin composition of matter precursor. At this
time, the composition of the resin composition of matter precursor
(PC (M):PC (L):ABS:sulfone system: Si system: PTFE:talc) was
48.5:30:7.5:1.0:0.1:0.4:12.5 at a weight ratio.
Comparative Examples 2-1 to 2-4
[0109] A procedure similar to that of Example 2-1 was performed,
except that the flame retardant of Comparative example 1-1
(Comparative example 2-1), the flame retardant of Comparative
example 1-2 (Comparative example 2-2), the flame retardant of
Comparative example 1-3 (Comparative example 2-3), or the flame
retardant of Comparative example 1-4 (Comparative example 2-4) was
used instead of the flame retardant of Example 1-1.
Comparative Example 2-5
[0110] A procedure similar to that of Example 2-4 was performed,
except that the flame retardant of Comparative example 1-1 was used
instead of the flame retardant of Example 1-1.
Comparative Examples 2-6 and 2-7
[0111] A procedure similar to that of Example 2-5 (Comparative
example 2-6) or Example 2-6 (Comparative example 2-7) was
performed, except that the flame retardant of Comparative example
1-1 was used instead of the flame retardant of Example 1-2.
[0112] For the pellets and the test specimens composed of the resin
composition of matters of Examples 2-1 to 2-6 and Comparative
examples 2-1 to 2-7, combustibleness test, characteristics
evaluation after being stored at high temperature and high
humidity, and recycle characteristics evaluation were performed.
The result illustrated in Table 2 was obtained.
[0113] In the combustibleness test, vertical combustibleness test
was performed according to standards V-0, V-1, and V-2 of UL94
(underwriters laboratory subject 94) by using the test specimens.
As evaluation results of combustibleness, in the case where a test
specimen passed the standard(s), such a test specimen was evaluated
as V-0, V-1, or V-2 corresponding to the passed standard(s).
Meanwhile, in the case where a test specimen did not pass the
standard V-2, such a test specimen was evaluated as "x." For the
standards V-0, V-1, and V-2 of UL94, specifically, evaluation was
made by the following procedure. First, five pieces of test
specimens were prepared. Burner flame was applied to a strip
specimen supported in an approximately vertical state from the
bottom side to retain such a state for 10 seconds. After that, the
burner flame was detached from the strip specimen. When the flame
was distinguished, the burner flame was immediately applied to the
strip specimen for another 10 seconds, and then the burner flame
was detached from the strip specimen. At this time, evaluation was
made according to the flammable duration after the first and the
second flame applications, the total of the flammable combustion
duration and the flameless combustion duration after the second
flame application, the total of the flammable combustion durations
of all five test specimens, and presence of combustion droppings.
In this case, the standard V-0 represented a case that the first
and the second flammable combustions were finished within 10
seconds, and the standards V-1 and V-2 represented a case that the
first and the second flammable combustions were finished within 30
seconds. Further, the total of the flammable combustion duration
and the flameless combustion duration after the second flame
application was within 30 seconds for the standard V-0, and within
60 seconds for the standards V-1 and V-2. Further, the total of the
flammable combustion durations of all five test specimens was
within 50 seconds for the standard V-0, and within 250 seconds for
the standards V-1 and V-2. Furthermore, combustion droppings were
tolerable only for the V-2 standard. That is, in the UL
combustibleness test method (UL94), combustibleness was increased
in the order of the standards V-0, V-1, and V-2.
[0114] In characteristics evaluation after being stored at high
temperature and high humidity, the test specimens were exposed in
the atmosphere in which the temperature was 80 deg C. and the
relative humidity (RH) was 80% for four weeks. After that,
evaluation was made according to the appearance change, the
molecular weight retention ratio, and the combustibleness test. For
the appearance change, comparison was made with the appearance
before being stored at high temperature and high humidity, and
evaluation was visually made on presence of generation of haze, it
was evaluated as "o" if no change was observed, and "x" if haze was
generated. The molecular weight retention ratio was calculated from
the ratio (%) of the weight average molecular weight after being
stored to the weight average molecular weight before being stored.
The combustibleness test was performed in the same manner as the
foregoing combustibleness test by using the test specimen being
after stored.
[0115] In evaluating recycle characteristics, by repeatedly
performing pelletization, the retention ratio of Izod impact
strength (JIS K7100) was obtained. First, Izod impact strength was
measured by using a test specimen (initial strength). Next, after
the test specimen was pulverized, the resultant was supplied to a
push bench, was kneaded at 280 deg C., and thereby was pelletized.
After such a step was repeated five times in total, the pellets
were put into an injection molding machine and was injection-molded
at given temperature. Thereby, a strip specimen composed of the
resin composition of matter having a thickness of 1.6 mm was
fabricated again. The Izod impact strength of the test specimen was
measured (strength after being re-pelletized). Based on the ratio
(%) of the strength after being re-pelletized to the initial
strength, the strength retention ratio was calculated.
TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 Flame retardant Resin (wt %) Sulfonate
system Si system Additive (wt %) PC (M) PC (L) ABS Type wt % (wt %)
PTFE Talc Example 2-1 99.5 -- -- Example 1-1 0.2 -- 0.3 -- Example
2-2 99.5 -- -- Example 1-2 0.2 -- 0.3 -- Example 2-3 99.5 -- --
Example 1-3 0.2 -- 0.3 -- Example 2-4 69.5 30 -- Example 1-1 0.2 --
0.3 -- Example 2-5 82.5 -- 5 Example 1-2 1 1 0.5 10 Example 2-6
48.5 30 7.5 Example 1-2 1 0.1 0.4 12.5 Comparative 99.5 -- --
Comparative 0.2 -- 0.3 -- example 2-1 example 1-1 Comparative 99.5
-- -- Comparative 0.2 -- 0.3 -- example 2-2 example 1-2 Comparative
99.5 -- -- Comparative 0.2 -- 0.3 -- example 2-3 example 1-3
Comparative 99.5 -- -- Comparative 0.2 -- 0.3 -- example 2-4
example 1-4 Comparative 69.5 30 -- Comparative 0.2 -- 0.3 --
example 2-5 example 1-1 Comparative 82.5 -- 5 Comparative 1 1 0.5
10 example 2-6 example 1-2 Comparative 48.5 30 7.5 Comparative 1
0.1 0.4 12.5 example 2-7 example 1-2 After being stored at high
temperature and high humidity Combustibleness Molecular weight
Combustibleness Strength evaluation Appear- storage ratio
evaluation retention (UL94) ance (%) (UL94) ratio (%) Example 2-1
V-0 .smallcircle. >98 V-0 >98 Example 2-2 V-0 .smallcircle.
>98 V-0 >98 Example 2-3 V-0 .smallcircle. >98 V-0 >98
Example 2-4 V-0 .smallcircle. >98 V-0 >98 Example 2-5 V-0 --
>98 V-0 >98 Example 2-6 V-0 -- >98 V-0 >98 Comparative
V-0 x 90 V-1 85 example 2-1 Comparative V-1 x 85 V-2 78 example 2-2
Comparative V-2 .smallcircle. >98 V-2 >98 example 2-3
Comparative V-2 .smallcircle. >98 V-2 >98 example 2-4
Comparative V-1 x 82 V-1 71 example 2-5 Comparative V-1 -- 71 V-2
65 example 2-6 Comparative V-2 -- 68 V-2 61 example 2-7
[0116] As illustrated in Table 2, in Examples 2-1 to 2-3 in which
the flame retardants of Examples 1-1 to 1-3 were contained, the
combustibleness evaluation was V-0, the appearance after being
stored at high temperature and high humidity and the like were
favorably retained, and the strength retention ratio was increased
as high as a value exceeding 98%. Meanwhile, in Comparative
examples 2-1 and 2-2 in which the flame retardants of Comparative
examples 1-1 and 1-2 were contained, though the combustibleness
evaluation was V-0 or V1, the appearance evaluation after being
stored at high temperature and high humidity and the like were
significantly deteriorated, and the strength retention ratio was
significantly decreased as low as a value 85% or less. The result
showed that in the case where the flame retardants including the
flame retardant factor layer 12 of Examples 1-1 to 1-3 were
contained, dispersibility and compatibility were improved, and
moisture absorption was inhibited. In Comparative examples 2-3 and
2-4 in which the flame retardants of Comparative examples 1-3 and
1-4 were contained, though the appearance and the molecular weight
retention ratio after being stored at high temperature and high
humidity and the strength retention ratio were similar to those of
Examples 2-1 to 2-3, the combustibleness evaluation and the
combustibleness evaluation after being stored at high temperature
and high humidity were V-2. That is, in the flame retardants of
Comparative examples 1-3 and 1-4, since the sulfonate group or the
like was not introduced, the combustibleness evaluation was low,
and by just that much, moisture absorption was low, and
deterioration of the appearance after being stored at high
temperature and high humidity and the like were not generated.
[0117] Accordingly, it was confirmed that in the resin composition
of matter, in the case where the foregoing flame retardant was
contained, the fire retardancy was improved, even if being exposed
under high humidity environment, the inherent physical properties
of the resin were retained stably for a long time, and fire
retardancy was secured. Further, high recycle characteristics were
also confirmed. In this case, since the foregoing flame retardant
hardly absorbs moisture, handling characteristics were improved,
and dispersiveness was improved and superior compatibility was
obtained in forming the resin composition of matter.
[0118] Further, in Examples 2-4 to 2-6 in which as a resin, the
flame retardants of Examples 1-1 and 1-2 were contained together
with the low molecular weight PC, ABS or the like, the
combustibleness evaluation was V-0, the appearance after being
stored at high temperature and high humidity and the like were
favorably retained, and the strength retention ratio was increased
as high as a value exceeding 98%. Meanwhile, in Comparative
examples 2-5 to 2-7 in which as a resin, the flame retardants of
Comparative examples 1-1 and 1-2 were contained together with the
low molecular weight PC, ABS or the like, the combustibleness
evaluation was low (V-1 or V2), the appearance after being stored
at high temperature and high humidity and the like were
significantly deteriorated, and the strength retention ratio was
significantly decreased as low as a value about 70% or less. For
Examples 2-5 and 2-6 and Comparative examples 2-6 and 2-7, the
appearance change was not evaluated.
[0119] Accordingly, it was confirmed that in the resin composition
of matter, in the case where the flame retardant of the present
invention was contained, without relation to the resin type and the
additive, fire retardancy was improved, the inherent physical
properties of the resin were retained stably for a long time, and
fire retardancy was secured. Further, high recycle characteristics
were also confirmed.
[0120] Though not illustrated in these examples, even if the
content of the flame retardant of the present invention in the
resin composition of matter exceeded 10 wt %, high fire retardancy
and long-term stability were obtained. However, it was confirmed
that in the case where the content of the flame retardant of the
present invention in the resin composition of matter was 10 wt % or
less, superior fire retardancy and the inherent physical properties
of the resin were secured.
[0121] While the invention has been described of the flame
retardant, the method of manufacturing the same, the resin
composition of matter, and the method of manufacturing the same of
the present invention with reference to the embodiment and the
examples. However, the present invention is not limited to the
aspects described in the foregoing embodiment and the foregoing
examples. The structures of the flame retardant, the method of
manufacturing the same, the resin composition of matter, and the
method of manufacturing the same may be freely modified.
[0122] Specifically, in the foregoing embodiment and the foregoing
examples, in the flame retardant, one layer of the flame retardant
factor layer 12 is provided in the surface layer section. However,
in the present invention, the structure of the flame retardant is
not limited thereto, but for example, a flame retardant in which
two or more layers of the flame retardant factor layer 12 are
provided may be adopted.
[0123] Further, in the foregoing embodiment and the foregoing
examples, the description has been given of a case in which
TOF-SIMS is used in obtaining the thickness ratio of the flame
retardant factor layer 12. However, the thickness ratio of the
flame retardant factor layer 12 may be obtained by other
method.
[0124] Further, in the foregoing embodiment and the foregoing
examples, the description has been given of the moisture content or
the like of the polymer in the method of manufacturing a flame
retardant of the present invention with reference to the numerical
value range derived from the results of the examples as an
appropriate range. However, the foregoing description does not
totally deny possibility that the content or the like might be out
of the foregoing range. That is, the foregoing appropriate range is
only a particularly preferably range in order to obtain effect of
the present invention. As long as the effect of the present
invention is obtained, the ratio and the content may be somewhat
out of the foregoing range.
* * * * *