Effects of flame‐retardant ramie fiber on enhancing performance of the rigid polyurethane foams

Ramie fiber (RF) with excellent tensile strength was treated by a flame retardant and obtained the modified RF (MRF) that is incombustible. Then, MRF was used to improve the performance of rigid polyurethane foams (RPUF). The mechanical properties of the composite were investigated by compressive strength test and shear stress test. The fire characteristics were studied using a cone calorimeter. And the thermal decomposition and flammable properties were further evaluated using thermogravimetric analysis and limiting oxygen index. The results showed that MRF improve the mechanical properties of RPUF and eliminate the harm of flammability of RF on the RPUF.