ABSTRACT

With an inorganic silica-like core surrounded by eight organic corner groups, such a unique structure has imparted polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) unexpected character to enhance the performance of polymer. The well-dispersed state that determines the reinforcement efficiency of nanofillers is capable of being obtained by the excellent compatibility between the outer organic groups of POSS and the polymer matrix. Meanwhile, the presence of silicon elements regarded as typical flame retardant elements also makes POSS possess a significant effect for improving the fire safety of a polymer, which can make combustion char more robust to resist the delivery of heat and inflammable products. Herein, we review the reinforcement effect of POSS for the flame retardancy and thermal stability of polymer composites. Emphasis is placed on the kinds and functional groups of POSS as well as the incorporation methods into a polymer for the enhancement effect of a polymer in this chapter. In addition, the synergistic effect between POSS and conventional fire retardants is also discussed.