What is the flame retardant mechanism of magnesium hydroxide?

Magnesium hydroxide exerts its flame-retardant effect upon heating through a series of synergistic effects. First, it undergoes endothermic decomposition, absorbing a large amount of heat and effectively reducing the surface temperature of combustible materials. The water vapor released during decomposition dilutes the surrounding oxygen and combustible gases, slowing down combustion. Simultaneously, the dense magnesium oxide layer formed after decomposition forms a physical barrier, isolating heat, oxygen, and combustible volatiles, inhibiting smoke production, and preventing molten dripping, thus achieving a highly efficient and environmentally friendly flame-retardant effect.

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