Organophosphate flame retardants function by releasing phosphorus compounds when exposed to heat, which play a pivotal role in fire prevention. When subjected to elevated temperatures, these compounds form a protective char layer on the surface of materials. This char layer acts as a heat shield, insulating the material from further combustion and reducing flammability. By creating this barrier, organophosphate flame retardants slow down or prevent the spread of fires, making them valuable in various applications, including plastics, textiles, and electronics to enhance fire safety.
Organophosphates are not inherently flammable. In fact, some organophosphate compounds are used as flame retardants to reduce the flammability of materials, such as plastics and textiles.
Organophosphates exhibit diverse properties based on their specific chemical structure, but some common features include their use as pesticides, flame retardants, and chemical warfare agents, depending on the compound.