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[Display omitted] • Electronic products sorted by black, white or other color are called chromoproducts. • Chromoproducts were categorized according to their likelihood of POP-BFRs content. • Chromoproduct approach used to sort polluted/clean plastic at e-waste facilities. • Bromine and antimony contents by weight might be indicators of POP-BFRs pollution. • Chromoproducts composition and plastics separated by polymer type allowed upcycling. Research to prevent releases of brominated flame retardants listed as persistent organic pollutants by the Stockholm Convention (POP-BFRs) was conducted through an international cooperation project in Colombia. Six waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) management facilities implemented: 1) sorting e-waste by product type and color (black, white, and other; henceforth called chromoproducts), 2) sampling test products and their plastic fraction (called sets, separated by polymer type), 3) monitoring mass, bromine and antimony contents by hand-held X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and POP-BFRs such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) by gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC–MS), and 4) differentiated treatment according to categories that used the Restriction of Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive (RoHS) hazardousness threshold of 1000 mg ∑PBDEs/kg. This scheme led to the proposal of a methodology for WEEE management called the "chromoproduct approach". 994,230 products were managed and grouped into 222 chromoproducts, from which 77 were analyzed: 50 below RoHS hazardousness (BRH), 16 above RoHS hazardousness (ARH), and 11 unknown RoHS hazardousness (URH). XRF indicators using bromine and antimony contents could rule out pollution in BRH chromoproducts; however, categorization still required GC–MS. One ARH plastics sample had 3620 mg ∑PBDEs/kg, while no POP-BFRs were found in the BRH plastics sample. The implementation of the chromoproduct approach traced 153.6 tonnes of ARH plastics. BRH plastics composition was estimated and used in a pilot-scale closed-loop economic activity. The chromoproduct approach seems promising for avoiding POP-BFR releases and promoting the upcycling of recyclable e-waste plastics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Sorting lines reject around 40% of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). • Unsortable mixed plastics from post-consumer WEEE have been compatibilized. • SEBS-30 led to reduced phase segregation and improved fracture surface. • Differential Scanning Calorimetry showed 20% SEBS-30 increased polymer interaction. • 20% SEBS-30 yielded mechanical performance comparable to that of virgin polymers. While near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy in post-consumer waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) recycling accurately separates white or clear polymers, 40% containing dark plastics, termed 'unsortable WEEE,' are excluded from sorting lines and therefore incinerated or landfilled, causing environmental concerns. This study investigates the potential of using non-reactive and reactive copolymers as compatibilizers to enhance the performance of unsortable WEEE plastics free of brominated flame retardants. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that such copolymers have been explored as a solution for improving the compatibility of unsortable WEEE polymer blends. Initial trials with 4% of styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene copolymer (SEBS-13) and SEBS-30-g-(maleic anhydride) copolymer (SEBS-30-g-MA MA) as compatibilizers showed insufficient results compared to virgin commercial polymers. However, the addition of higher concentrations of compatibilizers (i.e. up to 20 wt%) and the use of a SEBS having a higher styrene content (i.e. SEBS-30) improved the mechanical properties of the material, causing it to transition from brittle to ductile. This behavior was found more pronounced for the 20% non-reactive SEBS-30, for which the SEM analysis showed reduced phase segregation and revealed a more homogeneous fracture surface. This was further supported by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) analysis, which showed evidence of an interaction between one or more polymer phases. With a room temperature performance equivalent to that of virgin conventional polymers, the SEBS-30 compatibilization approach has made it possible to consider using unsortable WEEE streams as recycled materials in commercial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The incidence of endocrine-related cancer, which includes tumors in major endocrine glands such as the breast, thyroid, pituitary, and prostate, has been increasing year by year. Various studies have indicated that brominated flame retardants (BFRs) are neurotoxic, endocrine-toxic, reproductive-toxic, and even carcinogenic. However, the epidemiological relationship between BFR exposure and endocrine-related cancer risk remains unclear. We searched the PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science databases for articles evaluating the association between BFR exposure and endocrine-related cancer risk. The odds ratio (OR) and its corresponding 95% confidence interval (95% CI) were used to assess the association. Statistical heterogeneity among studies was assessed with the Q-test and I 2 statistics. Begg's test was performed to evaluate the publication bias. We collected 15 studies, including 6 nested case-control and 9 case-control studies, with 3468 cases and 4187 controls. These studies assessed the risk of breast cancer, thyroid cancer, and endocrine-related cancers in relation to BFR levels. Our findings indicate a significant association between BFR exposure in adipose tissue and an increased risk of breast cancer. However, this association was not observed for thyroid cancer. Generally, BFR exposure appears to elevate the risk of endocrine-related cancers, with a notable increase in risk linked to higher levels of BDE-28, a specific polybrominated diphenyl ether congener. In conclusion, although this meta-analysis has several limitations, our results suggest that BFR exposure is a significant risk factor for breast cancer, and low-brominated BDE-28 exposure could significantly increase the risk of endocrine-related cancers. Further research is essential to clarify the potential causal relationships between BFRs and endocrine-related cancers, and their carcinogenic mechanisms. • This is the first meta-analysis on BFR exposure and endocrine-related cancer. • BFR exposure appears to elevate the risk of endocrine-related cancers. • BFR exposure in adipose tissue is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. • BDE-28 increased the risk of endocrine-related cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The flammability limits of R13I1 + R152a/R600a/R1270 binary mixtures were measured. • The critical flammable volumetric ratios of R13I1 + R152a/R600a/R1270 were obtained. • A generalized equation for the LFL of R13I1 mixtures was provided. • F -number and HOC were calculated and the inhibitory effects of R13I1 were analyzed. Trifluoroiodomethane (R13I1) is a flame retardant with an extremely low global warming potential (GWP) and can be used as a component to improve the flammable characteristics of most promising low-GWP refrigerants. In this paper, the flammability limits of R13I1 + 1,1-Difluoroethane (R152a), R13I1 + isobutane (R600a) and R13I1 + propylene (R1270) binary mixtures were measured at 60 °C and atmospheric pressure with a 12 L flask according to ASHRAE standards. The critical suppression ratios of R13I1 + R152a, R13I1 + R600a and R13I1 + R1270 are 0.45, 2.24 and 0.99, respectively. A generalized equation for the lower flammability limit (LFL) of R13I1 mixtures was provided. With the LFL of the fuel gas in air and the ratio of R13I1 to the fuel gas, the developed generalized equation can calculated the LFL of R13I1 mixtures with a reasonable accuracy. The influence of R13I1 on the flammability of R152a, R600a and R1270 were studied. The LFL increases and heat of combustion (HOC) decreases significantly with the increase of the R13I1 concentration. The flammability inhibition effects of R13I1 decrease in the order: R152a > R1270 > R600a. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Flammability limits of azeotropic mixtures consist of R1243zf are tested for the first time. • A brief mechanism for flame-retardant effect of R13I1, R227ea and R134a is analyzed. • CSCs of R1243zf mixtures are tested and compared with calculation results by 3 methods. 3,3,3-trifluoropropene (R1243zf) is a low climate change effect refrigerant that has great development potential. However, R1243zf is flammable and its safety classification is A2 as per ISO standard 817. To reduce its risk of flammability, the method of using mixed refrigerants in practical applications is an effective approach. In this paper, an experimental system was established according to the ASHRAE standard 34 to measure the flammability limits of four azeotropic mixtures containing R1243zf. First, the critical suppression ratio (CSR) of R13I1/R1243zf was tested out that is 0.353. Further measurements were made to determine the lower flammability limits (LFLs) and critical suppression concentrations (CSCs) of three ternary mixtures consisted of R1243zf, thermodynamic performance enhancer (RE170) and flame retardants (R13I1, R134a or R227ea), at various compositions. The experimental non-flammable proportions of R1243zf/RE170/R13I1, R1243zf/RE170/R134a, and R1243zf/RE170/R227ea were 31.81 %, 5.49 %, and 22.42 %, respectively. Besides, a comparison was made between the experimental data and the predicted results by means of three different theoretical methods (the equal effect method, thermal balance method, and group contribution method). The fresh experimental results will provide practical guidance for the applications that utilize the R1243zf blends in low flammability risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lipid metabolism play an essential role in occurrence and development of asthma, and it can be disturbed by phthalate esters (PAEs) and organophosphate flame retardants (OPFRs). As a chronic inflammatory respiratory disease, the occurrence risk of childhood asthma is increased by PAEs and OPFRs exposure, but it remains not entirely clear how PAEs and OPFRs contribute the onset and progress of the disease. We have profiled the serum levels of PAEs and OPFRs congeners by liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry, and its relationships with the dysregulation of lipid metabolism in asthmatic, bronchitic (acute inflammation) and healthy (non-inflammation) children. Eight PAEs and nine OPFRs congeners were found in the serum of children (1 – 5 years old) from Shenzhen, and their total median levels were 615.16 ng/mL and 17.06 ng/mL, respectively. Moreover, the serum levels of mono-methyl phthalate (MMP), tri-propyl phosphate (TPP) and tri- n -butyl phosphate (TNBP) were significant higher in asthmatic children than in healthy and bronchitic children as control. Thirty-one characteristic lipids and fatty acids of asthma were screened by machine-learning random forest model based on serum lipidome data, and the alterations of inflammatory characteristic lipids and fatty acids including palmitic acids, 12,13-DiHODE, 14,21-DiHDHA, prostaglandin D2 and LysoPA(18:2) showed significant correlated with high serum levels of MMP, TPP and TNBP. These results imply PAEs and OPFRs promote the occurrence of childhood asthma via disrupting inflammatory lipid and fatty acid metabolism, and provide a novel sight for better understanding the effects of plastic additives on childhood asthma. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• TBBPA rather than its main derivatives exposure promoted the proliferation of EC cells. • TBBPA exposure caused the activation of ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis pathway. • TBBPA suppressed p53 level via the enhanced ubiquitination degradation of p53, resulting in the abnormal imbalance of cell cycle and cell apoptosis. • TBBPA can bind to the ubiquitinated proteasome, especially CDC20 and UBE2I. Tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA) and its derivatives widely exist in various environments and biota. Although the available data indicate that TBBPA exposure is highly associated with the increased incidence of endometrial cancer (EC), the effects of TBBPA and its main derivatives on EC proliferation and the involved crucial mechanism remain unclear. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of TBBPA and its derivatives under environmental concentrations on the proliferation of EC, and the crucial mechanism on the progression of EC caused by bromine flame retardants exposure. In this research, TBBPA and two of the most common TBBPA derivatives including TBBPA bis (2-hydroxyethyl ether) (TBBPA-BHEE) and TBBPA bis (dibromopropyl ether) (TBBPA-BDBPE) were screened for their capacities in induced EC proliferation and explored the related mechanism by in vitro cell culture model and in vivo mice model. Under environmental concentrations, TBBPA promoted the proliferation of EC, the main derivatives of TBBPA (TBBPA-BHEE and TBBPA-BDBPE) did not present the similar facilitation effects. The ubiquitination degradation of p53 was crucial in TBBPA induced EC proliferation, which resulted in the increase of downstream cell cycle and decrease of apoptosis. The further molecular docking result suggested the high affinity between TBBPA and ubiquitinated proteasome. This finding revealed the effects of TBBPA and its derivatives on EC proliferation, thus providing novel insights into the underlying mechanisms of TBBPA-caused EC. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organophosphorus flame retardants (OPFRs) can damage the brain and may cause abnormal behaviors. There was no population-based study to reveal the relationship between OPFRs and the occurrence of depression. This study utilized a publicly available database to investigate the correlation between OPFRs exposure and the risk of depression, and the mediation effect of inflammation on the correlation. Data in this study was from the database of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Multifactorial logistic regression was used to estimate the relationship between OPFRs exposure and the risk of depression, and a mediation effect model was constructed to explore the impact of inflammation on the correlation. Data of 1273 participants was included in the study. It was found that individuals with high urinary concentration of bis-(2-chloroethyl) phosphate had an increased risk of developing depression (OR = 1.217, 95 % CI: 1.032–1.435). Combined exposure to OPFRs was significantly associated with the increased risk of depression than single OPFRs exposure. Subgroup analyses based on inflammatory levels in the body revealed that inflammation might exert the mediation effect on the association between OPFRs exposure and the risk of depression, with the contribution proportion of 8.23 %. Cross-sectional data and rapid metabolism of OPFRs lead to uncertainty in revealing long-term exposure in the body. There was a correlation between OPFRs exposure and the risk of depression, which may be mediated by inflammation in the body to some extent. • OPFRs exposure is a risk factor for depression. • Combined exposure to OPFRs causes a higher risk of depression than single exposure. • The inflammatory status may be involved in the depression caused by OPFRs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present scenario, the underground chambers of deep metal mines are plagued by excessively high temperatures, and the existing adiabatic materials have proven to be inadequate in addressing this challenge. Considering these issues, this study introduces an innovative adiabatic and flame-retardant SiO 2 aerogel-based fibrous composite designed specifically for underground applications. The optimal preparation method for SiO 2 aerogel preparation was identified through monomer and orthogonal experiments, ultimately achieving a low thermal conductivity coefficient of 0.028 W/(m·K). Subsequently, through integral moulding, a composite material was developed, incorporating the optimal SiO 2 aerogel as a precursor along with ceramic fibres. The resulting ceramic fibre/SiO 2 aerogel exhibited an increased thermal conductivity coefficient of 0.061 W/(m·K). When subjected to a high-temperature combustion source of approximately 700 °C, the temperature of the upper surface of the sample was maintained at 131.9 °C and its mass loss rate was a mere 1.2%, exhibiting strong adiabatic and flame-retardant capabilities of the composite material. Moreover, the composite material exhibited good hydrophobic, adsorbent, and mechanical properties, making it well-suited for underground chamber applications. The research conducted on SiO 2 aerogel and its adiabatic ceramic fibre composite not only holds theoretical significance by guiding the development of improved adiabatic materials but also provides practical engineering solutions for mitigating heat transfer through raw rock and reducing chamber temperatures in underground mining environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The flammability limits of R134a/R1270, R134a/R170 and R170/R1270 were measured. • R134a demonstrates a significant flame-retardant effect at volume ratios above 0.75. • The flame color and propagation speed of refrigerants were compared and analyzed. Hydrocarbons (HCs) are considered promising alternative refrigerants due to their excellent thermodynamics, transport properties, and environmental friendliness. However, hydrocarbons are flammable. Conversely, R134a is a widely used non-flammable refrigerant but was listed in the Montreal Protocol-Kigali Amendment due to its relatively high global warming potential (GWP). Therefore, in order to reduce the GWP of R134a and inhibit the flammability of hydrocarbon refrigerants, this study investigated the flammability characteristics of mixed refrigerants R134a/R1270, R134a/R170, and R170/R1270. The flammability limits of different concentrations of R170/R1270, R134a/R1270, and R134a/R170 were measured under standard conditions, and the inhibition mechanism of R134a was briefly analyzed. Additionally, the flammability limits of R170/R1270, R134a/R1270, and R134a/R170 were predicted using the polynomial fitting method. Subsequently, the flame propagation speed and the flame color of R1270 and R170, with and without R134a, were compared and analyzed. Furthermore, the cycle performance of R134a/HCs was calculated. The research results are expected to provide guidance for the safe and effective utilization of R1270, R170, and their mixtures in refrigeration systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fire hazard assessment of polymers and the effect of flame retardants constitutes the foundation for preventing and managing fire risks to public safety. This study addresses key challenges by considering intrinsic hazards, indicator volatility and correlations, while overcoming subjectivity in weight assignment and the neglect of flame-retardant treatments. Firstly, we initiate two novel steps of Pearson correlation analysis and predefined comparative scales for indicators, which enhance the objectivity, scalability and repeatability of analytic network process (ANP) weights. Secondly, we utilize the CRITIC method to incorporate indicator volatility and correlations, surpassing the limitations of separate calculations and subsequent combinations. The newly developed pure sample normalization method enhances the interpretability and scientific validity of CRITIC weights. Combining the ANP and CRITIC weights using Nash equilibrium theory, the results rectify the underestimated T -5% from 0.72% to 3.64%, reducing the overestimated PCO 2 , PSP and TSP from 11.98%, 9.62% and 9.59–7.25%, 9.12% and 5.69%, respectively. Finally, the fire hazards value effectively captures the increased fire hazards resulting from specific degraded indicators following flame retardant treatments. The research findings provide a fresh perspective for the safe design of flame-retardant polymers and fire hazard assessment, offering valuable insights for fire risk prevention and management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• APP flame retardant was detected in polyolefins by industrial hyperspectral imaging. • SWIR spectra and PCA enables inline quantitative estimation of APP. • Enabling APP concentration detection down to 1.46 wt% in LDPE. • Enabling APP concentration detection down to 1.65 wt% in PP. • Setting industrial relevant method of phosphor-flame retardant plastic waste recycling. Due to developments in European legislation, several halogenated flame retardants are banned due to their toxicity, and the use of phosphor-based flame retardants in plastics is increasing. A revision of ammonium polyphosphate (APP) flame retardant revealed that it is an eye irritant and toxic, thus posing a health issue. Hence APP identification is needed for enabling safe recycling of plastic waste streams. Herein an industrial in-line method for quantitative estimation of APP in low density polyethylene (LDPE) and polypropylene (PP) is demonstrated, by using an industrial hyperspectral imaging system (955 to 1700 nm) and principal component analysis (PCA). Spectra of plastic samples with varying concentrations of APP were applied to build and calibrate a quantitative determination method. PCA and band area ratios (of selected bands) were made and fitted with continuous functions for concentration determination. The plastic samples were characterised by elemental analysis, attenuated total reflection, differential scanning calorimetry, and thermogravimetric analysis. The PCA model outperforms the band area ratio model and predicts APP concentrations between 24.3 and 1.5 wt% in LDPE (R2 = 0.98) and 20.0 and 1.7 wt% in PP (R2 = 0.97). Unknown samples with APP ranging from 23.7 to 2.7 wt% in LDPE and from 18.6 to 2.3 wt% in PP were predicted and correlated to the actual concentrations. The proposed approach is valuable for the plastic recyclers and waste management industries where inline concentration determination of flame retardants is key. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Fate of nine tri-OPFRs in sludge was studied in a WWTP in Beijing, China. • Sludge contained high concentrations of tri-OPFRs (971.48–1,702.22 ng/g). • Mass flow of tri-OPFRs showed seasonal decreases. • The dehydration unit removed the most tri-OPFRs during sludge treatment. • Ecological risk of OPFRs in treated sludge was reduced. Organophosphate flame retardants (OPFRs) are emerging environmental pollutants that cause endocrine disruption, neurotoxicity, and reproductive toxicity. Sewage sludge is an important source of tri-OPFRs that are released into the environment. The occurrence, distribution, and ecological risk of OPFRs in the full-scale "Cambi® thermal hydrolysis (TH) + advanced anaerobic digestion (AAD) + plate-frame pressure filtration" sludge treatment process is closely related to the application of sewage sludge. We tested sludge samples from a wastewater treatment plant in Beijing, China. Nine tri-OPFRs were detected in the sludge samples collected at different treatment units during four seasons. The ΣOPFRs decreased from 1,742.65–2,579.68 ng/g to 971.48–1,702.22 ng/g. The mass flow of tri-OPFRs in treated sludge decreased by 61.4%, 48.9%, 42.4%, and 63.9% in spring, summer, autumn and winter, respectively, effectively reducing the corresponding ecological risk. The ecological risk of tri-OPFRs in sludge in forestland utilization mainly lies in chlorinated tri-OPFRs, especially TCPP and TCEP. No >42.20 t/hm2 of sludge could be used continuously for one year to prevent tri-OPFRs from exceeding the low ecological risk level, indicating that the current commonly applied proportion of sludge (1.6–30 t/hm2) will likely not raise the ecological risk of tri-OPFRs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increase in the depth of coal mining, the problem of coal spontaneous combustion due to air leakage in the coal mine roadways is becoming increasingly serious. However, traditional cement mortar spray coatings are prone to cracking and poor flexibility, and polyurethane type spray coatings are not flame retardant, they are unable to meet the spraying needs. This paper proposes the preparation of a cement-based flexible spray coating for flame retardant (CFSCF) by modifying the cement-based material with the addition of fly ash, cellulose and emulsion material. The initial dosage ranges of fly ash, cellulose and emulsion material were studied. The effects of different dosages of fly ash, cellulose and emulsion material on the 7-day tensile strength, 14-day tensile strength and 28-day tensile strength were studied, and the optimum ratio of CFSCF was determined by the response surface methodology. The tensile mechanical properties, micromorphology and flame retardant properties of CFSCF with the optimum ratio were studied. The results showed that: the tensile strength of CFSCF reached the maximum at 28 days of maintenance period, 2.55 MPa; the maximum elongation at break was 52.62% at 14 days; the tensile toughness was up to 833.05KJ m−3; when the material was pulled, the two walls of the crack would bond to each other, reflecting the excellent flexibility; the alcohol lamp burning test results showed that there is flame burning time of 0 s, the material leaves the flame extinguished, has good flame retardant properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reductive dehalogenases are corrinoid and iron–sulfur cluster–containing enzymes that catalyze the reductive removal of a halogen atom. The oxygen-sensitive and membrane-associated nature of the respiratory reductive dehalogenases has hindered their detailed kinetic study. In contrast, the evolutionarily related catabolic reductive dehalogenases are oxygen tolerant, with those that are naturally fused to a reductase domain with similarity to phthalate dioxygenase presenting attractive targets for further study. We present efficient heterologous expression of a self-sufficient catabolic reductive dehalogenase from Jhaorihella thermophila in Escherichia coli. Combining the use of maltose-binding protein as a solubility-enhancing tag with the btuCEDFB cobalamin uptake system affords up to 40% cobalamin occupancy and a full complement of iron–sulfur clusters. The enzyme is able to efficiently perform NADPH-dependent dehalogenation of brominated and iodinated phenolic compounds, including the flame retardant tetrabromobisphenol, under both anaerobic and aerobic conditions. NADPH consumption is tightly coupled to product formation. Surprisingly, corresponding chlorinated compounds only act as competitive inhibitors. Electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy reveals loss of the Co(II) signal observed in the resting state of the enzyme under steady-state conditions, suggesting accumulation of Co(I)/(III) species prior to the rate-limiting step. In vivo reductive debromination activity is readily observed, and when the enzyme is expressed in E. coli strain W, supports growth on 3-bromo-4-hydroxyphenylacetic as a sole carbon source. This demonstrates the potential for catabolic reductive dehalogenases for future application in bioremediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flame retardants (FRs) are ubiquitous in environment and biota and may pose harm to human health. In recent years, concern regarding legacy and alternative FRs has been intensified due to their widespread production and increasing contamination in environmental and human matrices. In this study, we developed and validated a novel analytical method for simultaneous determination of legacy and alternative FRs, including polychlorinated naphthalenes (PCNs), short- and middle-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs and MCCPs), novel brominated flame retardants (NBFRs), and organophosphate esters (OPEs) in human serum. Serum samples were prepared by liquid-liquid extraction using ethyl acetate, and purified with Oasis® HLB cartridge and Florisil–silica gel columns. Instrumental analyses were carried out using gas chromatography-triple quadrupole mass spectrometry, high-resolution gas chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry, and gas chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry, respectively. The proposed method was validated for linearity, sensitivity, precision, accuracy, and matrix effects. Method detection limits for NBFRs, OPEs, PCNs, SCCPs, and MCCPs were 4.6 × 10–4–8.6 × 10–2, 4.3 × 10–3–1.3, 1.1 × 10–5–1.0 × 10–4, 1.5, and 9.0 × 10–1 ng/mL, respectively. Matrix spike recoveries ranged from 73%–122%, 71%–124%, 75%–129%, 92%–126%, and 94%–126% for NBFRs, OPEs, PCNs, SCCPs, and MCCPs, respectively. The analytical method was applied for detection of real human serum. CPs were the dominant FRs in serum, indicating CPs were widely presented in human serum and should be pay more attention for their health risk. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The scientific law of burning velocities of working fluids was found. • The effect of flame retardants on combustion characteristics was acquired. • The relationship between LFL/UFL and burning velocities was researched. • The inhibition mechanism of retardants on combustion characteristics was obtained. Despite its good environmental properties, the application of 1,1-Difluoroethane (R152a) is hindered by its flammability. So, an accurate instrument is required to solve the safety issues of R152a. In this study, the combustion characteristics of R152a mixtures with non-flammable CF 3 I/C 3 F 6 were measured using the vertical tube method by ISO-817. It could be found that the maximum burning velocity (S u, max) of R152a decreased from 21.163 cm/s to 7.805 cm/s (with R13I1) or 7.675 cm/s (with R1216) at concentration of 15.403%(with R13I1) and 11.508%(with R1216) at an ambient temperature. By adding non-flammable retardants to R152a from volumetric concentration of 10% – 40%, the flammability of the mixtures was lowered. And S u, max of both were reduced by more than 60%, leading the mixture to reach A2L. According to the S u, max data, the dilution effect of the three refrigerants is: R1216 > R13I1 > R227ea. Meanwhile, the density functional analysis theory was used to study the relationship between the molecular bonds of these refrigerants. The results showed that the refrigerants containing higher F/H ratio and the molecules with -CF 3 and -I groups were more prone to inhibit combustion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tris(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate (TDCIPP), Tris (1-chloro-2-propyl) phosphate (TCIPP) and tris (2-chloroethyl) phosphate (TCEP) are three widely used organophosphate flame retardants (OPFRs) being frequently detected in human body fluids. Although OPFRs are being detected in human beings, the toxicological effects of their exposure are not clearly understood due to limited data. For this, a physiologically based kinetic model (PBK) was developed in MCSIM integrated with R studio and validated in rats to understand the toxicokinetics of OPFRs for the first time. The model required the enterohepatic recirculation (EHR) mechanism which was included to explain the non-linear data. Model parameters were optimized using the Bayesian framework (Markov Chain Monte Carlo) along with a visual fitting to explain toxicokinetic data. Goodness-of-fit was calculated to evaluate model predictability power in Rstudio. The model can appropriately predict the concentration of OPFRs in several organs like plasma, urine, kidney, etc. within 1–2-fold of experimental data. Slow elimination of OPFRs was observed from adipose tissue and brain at late time points, showing their potential to accumulate upon daily exposure. The use of PBK was demonstrated by reconstructing the oral exposure equivalent to the in-vitro toxic dose to support neurotoxic risk assessment. This version of PBK can be extrapolated to human for toxicological risk assessment. Nonetheless, further investigation is required to understand whether these chemicals follow similar kinetics in humans, which could lead to a greater risk to human health. The model will be available to access through Rshiny using GIThub soon, InSilicoVida/Flame-Retardant-PBPK-Model: It contains organophosphate flame retardant (OPFRs) PBK for TDCIPP, TCIPP and TCEP (github.com). • Multi-compartment PBPK model developed for data-deficient organophosphate flame retardants for the first time. • Current PBPK model with limited in-vivo data along with in-vitro successfully explained the kinetics. • Enterohepatic recirculation (EHR) was included in model to show slow elimination. • IVIVE-based PBPK utilized to reconstruct the equivalent oral in-vivo exposure for neurotoxic risk assessment in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As for organic flame retardants, the high dosages (up to 20 wt%) are usually required to achieve favorable flame retardancy, which often causes serious aggregation in epoxy resin (EP). Thus, the applications of flame retarded EP composites are restricted by the jeopardized mechanical property. Therefore, a nano-microarchitecture of MoS 2 nanoflowers in-situ grown on polypyrrole microtube (P-Mo) is rationally constructed as flame retardant for EP. The peak heat release rate and total heat release are significantly reduced by 47.4% and 22.2%, when adding 3.0 wt% P-Mo, demonstrating the hindered heat release. Besides, the peak smoke production rate and peak CO yield show reductions of 46.8% and 62.9% separately, which proves the hindered toxicants emission. Thermogravimetric analysis/infrared spectrometry results also show the attenuated releases of toxic CO and NO. These results jointly demonstrate that using P-Mo can efficiently suppress the fire hazard of EP, ascribed to the physical barrier, chemical catalyzing and charring promotion actions. Surprisingly, the storage modulus value is enhanced by 20.9%, when only using 1.0 wt% P-Mo. [Display omitted] • Nano-microarchitecture of MoS 2 nanoflower grown on polypyrrole microtube is designed. • Marked inhibitions on heat and toxicants releases are discerned by adding P-Mo. • The usage of P-Mo incurs the producing of compact char with high graphitized degree. • Obviously promoted mechanical performance is also found after loading P-Mo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of toxic components, single function and poor durability greatly restricted the practical application of self-cleaning surfaces. To address these concerns, multifunctional superhydrophobic fabrics with self-healing were fabricated via in-situ growth of NiAl-layered double hydroxides (NiAl-LDHs) on the surface of the fabric and surface modification of stearic acid (SA). NiAl-LDHs crystals not only endow the laminar porous structure to increase the surface roughness, but also could capture air packets in water after modified by SA to achieve superhydrophobicity. The Fabric-LDH-SA exhibited excellent self-cleaning, which can avoid the adhesion of contaminants. Benefiting from the unique properties of NiAl-LDHs, the flame retardant and UV resistance of the Fabric-LDH-SA are greatly improved compared with pure fabrics. Importantly, the as-prepared Fabric-LDH-SA could maintain its superhydrophobicity when subjected to prolonged physical wear and tear such as long-time sandpaper grinding, ultrasonic washing. More importantly, the coating shows self-healing property regardless of the number of cycles after damage, which provides a promising strategy to tackle low durability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At present, it is still a challenge to prepare an air filtration material with high filter, low pressure drop and good environmental protection. In this study, a porous material with good filtration capacity for PM2.5 and excellent adsorption for harmful gases was developed. Chitosan (CS) was used as the frame matrix, and bamboo activated carbon (BAC) as the functional particles and methyl trimethoxylsilane (MTMS) as the hydrophobic modifier were introduced to the CS system, followed by freeze-dry to achieve the aerogel sheet with high porosity, flame retardant and hydrophobicity. The resulted CS@BAC composite aerogel showed excellent removal ability for both PM2.5 and formaldehyde in the filtration rate of 94.2% for PM2.5 and the formaldehyde adsorption amount of 61.6 mg/g, which was benefited from the dual removal system, the 3D network structure of the CS based aerogel formed during freeze-dry and the high surface area of BAC itself. In addition, the aerogel displayed outstanding flame-retardant property and its total heat release rate (THR) and maximum heat release rate (PHRR) were only 5.30 kJ/g and 28.2 W/g, respectively, the loss on ignition (LOI) value reaching 33.8%. At the same time, after the modification of MTMS, the aerogel realized the transformation from hydrophilic to hydrophobic, which could be used repeatedly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Recent progresses in reductive debromination of polybrominated diphenyl ethers are reviewed. • Photolysis, photo-, electro-, chemical catalysis, and mechanochemical method are compared. • Information on the thermodynamics and kinetics of PBDEs degradation are provided. • The degradation mechanisms in various systems are summarized. • Complete debromination occurs easily with active hydrogen atoms as reactive species. Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are widely used as brominated flame retardants, which had attracted amounts of attention due to their harmful characteristics of high toxicity, environmental persistence and potential bioaccumulation. Many chemical reductive debromination technologies have been developed for the debromination of PBDEs, including photolysis, photocatalysis, electrocatalysis, zero-valent metal reduction, chemically catalytic reduction and mechanochemical method. This review aims to provide information about the degradation thermodynamics and kinetics of PBDEs and summarize the degradation mechanisms in various systems. According to the comparative analysis, the rapid debromination to generate bromine-free products in an electron-transfer process, of which photocatalysis is a representative one, is found to be relatively difficult, because the degradation rate of PBDEs depended on the Br-rich phenyl ring with the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) localization. On the contrary, the complete debromination occurs easily in other systems with active hydrogen atoms as the main reactive species, such as chemically catalytic reduction systems. The review provides the knowledge on the chemical reductive technique of PBDEs, which would greatly help not only clarify the degradation mechanism but also design the more efficient system for the rapid and deep debromination of PBDEs in the future. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organophosphorus flame retardants (OPFRs) are widely used in consumer products and are frequently detected in water, thereby threatening public health. In the present study, we investigated the mechanism of degradation of two representative OPFRs, tri(2-chloroethyl) phosphate (TCEP) and tri-n-butyl phosphate (TnBP), by thermally activated persulphate (PS). First, the experimental data were in accordance with the modelling simulations. In the absence of Cl−, the instantaneous concentration of SO 4 –• was 3.12 × 10−15 M. When the concentration of Cl− increased from 7.5 mM to 450 mM, Cl 2 –• became the dominant radical, with its concentration increasing from 7.39 × 10−14 M to 7.91 × 10−13 M. Conversely, the concentration of SO 4 –• declined from 6.3 × 10−17 M to 2.6 × 10−19 M. Second, owing to the transition of dominant radicals from SO 4 –• to Cl 2 –•, the resultant pseudo-first-order decay rates (r obs) of TCEP and TnBP were reduced. Without Cl−, r obs of TCEP and TnBP were (1.8 ± 0.1)× 10−2 h−1 and (6.1 ± 0.4)× 10−2 h−1, respectively. When the Cl− concentration reached 450 mM, the r obs of TCEP and TnBP dropped to (2.2 ± 0.2)× 10−3 h−1 and (2.4 ± 0.2)× 10−2 h−1, respectively. Additionally, despite the presence of oxidised Cl 2 –• compounds, when Cl− participated in PS oxidation, no primary organic chlorinated byproducts were detected. These results indicated that Cl− did not affect the toxicity of TCEP and TnBP transformation intermediates. Finally, the apparent kinetic isotope effects for carbon (AKIE C) and hydrogen (AKIE H) were detected to be 1.01 and 1.370–3.049, respectively. The results implied that the C-H split occurred during the PS-activated transformation of TCEP and TnBP. The present study combines quantitative steady-state radical calculation, transformation product identification, and isotope fractionation to characterise the radical transformation of typical OPFRs, thereby laying the foundation for regulating PS oxidation to eliminate OPFRs in real-world systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The attapulgite (ATP) is one of important raw materials of ceramics and often used as a loading carrier. To control the release rate of composite flame retardant (CFR) when exposed to a fire, and to meet the multi-stage flame retarding requirements, the vacuum negative pressure method was adopted to load four kinds of monomer flame retardants on porous ATP as a carrier after activating pretreatment, respectively. Then CFR nanoparticles with controlled-release effects were prepared by the in-situ polymerization reaction on the surface of monomer flame retardants. After that, zinc hydroxyl stannate, styrene, melamine formaldehyde resin and silicon dioxide with high thermal stability and excellent flame retarding properties were selected as the coating layer of four kinds of monomer flame retardants on ATP carrier. Test results of environmental scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive spectrometer show the satisfactory loading and coating results of CFR nanoparticles. Test results of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy further confirm the excellent loading conditions and coating film formation on ATP carrier. The thermogravimetry-differential thermal scanning calorimetry tests indicate that the flame retarding duration of both loaded and coated CFR nanoparticles on ATP carrier is prolonged and has a satisfactory controlled-release effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tris (1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate (TDCIPP) is a commonly used organophosphate-based flame retardant and can bio-accumulate in human tissues and organs. As its structure is similar to that of neurotoxic organophosphate pesticides, the neurotoxicity of TDCIPP has raised widespread concerns. TDCIPP can increase neuronal apoptosis and induce autophagy. However, its regulatory mechanism remains unclear. In this study, we found that the expression upregulation of the DNA Damage-Inducible Transcript 4 (DDIT4) protein, which might play essential roles in TDCIPP-induced neuronal autophagy and apoptosis, was observed in TDCIPP-treated differentiated rat PC12 cells. Furthermore, we determined the protective effect of the DDIT4 suppression on the autophagy and apoptosis induced by TDCIPP using Western blot (WB) and Flow cytometry (FACS) analysis. We observed that TDCIPP treatment increased the DDIT4, the autophagy marker Beclin-1, and the microtubule-associated protein light chain 3-II (LC3II) expressions and decreased the mTOR phosphorylation levels. Conversely, the suppression of DDIT4 expression increased the p-mTOR expression and decreased cell autophagy and apoptosis. Collectively, our results revealed the function of DDIT4 in cell death mechanisms triggered by TDCIPP through the mTOR signaling axis in differentiated PC12 cells. Thus, this study provided vital evidence necessary to explain the mechanism of TDCIPP-induced neurotoxicity in differentiated PC12 cells. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lignin can be used as a sustainable alternative to bisphenol A (BPA) to prepared lignin-based epoxy resins. Lignin effects including molecular weight, phenolic content, G/S unit ratio and flexible/rigid linkage ratio on epoxy synthesis and performance were summarized comprehensively. The incorporation of lignin with a higher molecular weight would lead to the higher rigidity of epoxy crosslinking network. Higher contents of ether bonds in lignin would provide higher structural flexibility of lignin incorporated epoxy thermosets. Lignin with higher contents of phenolic hydroxyls was more beneficial for improving the reactivity of its epoxy products after glycidylation. Due to the excellent charring capacity of lignin, higher contents of residue char can be produced at higher additions of lignin at high temperatures, while the loss of crosslinking density caused by the increasing lignin addition (especially for the macromolecular lignin) would deteriorate the thermal stability of their thermosets. Several applications of lignin-based epoxy resins were also mentioned based on their mechanical, thermal and chemical properties, such as coatings (with anticorrosion and UV-blocking), adhesives (with highly crosslinking network, excellent mechanical, and thermal properties) and flame retardants (with high charring capability). [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Migration and subsequent invasion of extravillous trophoblasts into the uterus is essential for proper formation of the placenta. Disruption of these processes may result in poor pregnancy outcomes including preeclampsia, placenta accreta, fetal growth restriction, or fetal death. Currently, there are several methods for quantifying cell migration and invasion in vitro , each with limitations. Therefore, we developed a novel, high-throughput method to screen chemicals for their ability to alter human trophoblast migration. Human HTR8/SVneo trophoblast cells were cultured in Oris™ cell migration plates containing stopper barriers. After EVT cells attached and chemicals were added to media, stoppers were removed thereby creating a cell-free detection zone for migration. Entry of trophoblasts into this zone was monitored through imaging every 6 h and used to calculate a relative cell density. Chemicals known to increase (epidermal growth factor) and decrease (pertussis toxin and cadmium) trophoblast migration were used to validate this in vitro method. Next, a panel of environmental chemicals including bisphenols, mycoestrogens, and flame retardants, were screened for their ability to alter trophoblast invasion. In conclusion, a real-time method to track extravillous trophoblast migration offers potential for screening contaminants as placental toxicants. [Display omitted] • Trophoblast entry into a cell-free zone can be monitored with real-time imaging. • This migration assay can be used to screen potential human placenta toxicants. • Cadmium chloride, bisphenols, and mycoestrogens reduce trophoblast migration. • Organophosphate flame retardants increase trophoblast migration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biomass-based aerogel materials have many advantages, such as low thermal conductivity and non-toxicity. These materials are environmentally friendly and have broad development potential in the fields of packaging, cushioning and green building insulation. However, defects, such as low mechanical strength and poor fire safety, greatly limit the application of these materials. In this work, the agar/polyvinyl alcohol composite aerogel modified by the magnesium hydroxide (MH)/sodium alginate (SA) composite flame retardant system was developed by using a freeze-dried technology and the strategy of in-situ generation of MH and crosslinking of SA. The results showed that the MH/SA dramatically enhanced the mechanical and thermal stability of the composites. The compression modulus of AP-M35S15 was 2.37 MPa, which was 152.13 % higher than that of AP-M50. The limiting oxygen index value of AP-M35S15 was 34.1 % and reached V -0 level in the vertical burning test, which was better than those of the samples with a single MH effect. The cone calorimetric test showed that the MH/SA composite flame retardant system performed better in extending the ignition time, slowing down the heat release rate and reducing the total heat release and had a more complete dense carbon structure after burning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Constructing an eco-friendly phenolic resin with high toughness, strength, and flame retardancy is of great significance and challengeable in the wood-based panels industry. Acacia mangium tannin (AMT), as a biological macromolecule, was decorated onto graphene through ball milling. The formed AMT-functionalized graphene nanoplatelets (AMT@GnPs) were used to replace 40 % phenol to greenly modify and reinforce phenolic resins. The fabricated phenolic resin (BGTPF) exhibited high wet bonding strength of 1.58 MPa, high tensile strength of 24.4 MPa, and large toughness of 0.35 MJ m−3, which were 38.6 %, 27.7 %, and 75.0 % increments compared with the 1.14 MPa, 19.1 MPa and 0.20 MJ m−3 of the neat AMT-modified phenolic resin (TPF). These improvements were attributable to the good compatibility and strong interfacial interactions between AMT@GnPs and the resin matrix, which promoted the transfer and dissipation of load energy. The prepared BGTPF resin showed good flame retardancy and high thermal stability. The peak HRR decreased from 15.5 for TPF to 6.9 W/g for BGTPF. This work presents a new, low-cost, and sustainable strategy to construct mechanically strong, tough, and flame-retardant tannin-based phenolic resins for many promising applications such as engineered wood-based products. [Display omitted] • Acacia mangium tannin-functionalized graphene nanoplatelets (AMT@GnPs) were produced via ball-milling. • Green modification and reinforcement of phenolic resins were simultaneously achieved by using AMT@GnPs. • The wet bonding strength of the resultant plywood increased by 38.6 %. • The tensile strength and toughness of the modified resins increased by 27.7 % and 75.0 %, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• BFRs, novel BFRs and ENPs are detected in WWTPs and environment. • Presence of ENPs can influence the behaviour of BFRs. • Physical and chemical interaction mechanisms are identified between BFRs and ENPs. • Toxic effects altered after the interactions between BFRs and ENPs. • Environmental factors affect the interactions between BFRs and ENPs in environment. This review focuses on the occurrence and interactions of engineered nanoparticles (ENPs) and brominated flame retardants (BFRs) such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in water systems and the generation of highly complex compounds in the environment. The release of ENPs and BFRs (e.g. PBDEs) to aquatic environments during their usage and disposal are summarised together with their key interaction mechanisms. The major interaction mechanisms including electrostatic, van der Waals, hydrophobic, molecular bridging and steric, hydrogen and π-bonding, cation bridging and ligand exchange were identified. The presence of ENPs could influence the fate and behaviour of PBDEs through the interactions as well as induced reactions under certain conditions which increases the formation of complex compounds. The interaction leads to alteration of behaviour for PBDEs and their toxic effects to ecological receptors. The intermingled compound (ENPs-BFRs) would show different behaviour from the parental ENPs or BFRs, which are currently lack of investigation. This review provided insights on the interactions of ENPs and BFRs in artificial, environmental water systems and wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), which are important for a comprehensive risk assessment. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

● TBP could be bioaccumulated differently in tested organs, liver>gonads>brain. ● TBP could also be transferred from parental generation to their progeny. ● TBP led to thyroid endocrine disruptions in both parental males and females. ● Transgenerational thyroid endocrine disruption occurred in unexposed offspring. Many environmental contaminants could be transmitted from parents and generate impairments to their progeny. The 2,4,6-tribromophenol (TBP), a novel brominated flame retardant which has been frequently detected in various organisms, was supposed to be bioaccumulated and intergenerational transmitted in human beings. Previous studies revealed that TBP could disrupt thyroid endocrine system in zebrafish larvae. However, there is no available data regarding the parental and transgenerational toxicity of this contaminant. Thus, in this study adult zebrafish were exposed to environmental contaminated levels of TBP for 60 days to investigate the parental and transgenerational impairments on thyroid endocrine system. Chemical analysis verified the bioaccumulation of TBP in tested organs of parents (concentration: liver>gonads>brain) and its transmission into eggs. For adults, increased thyroid hormones, disturbed transcriptions of related genes and histopathological changes in thyroid follicles indicate obvious thyroid endocrine disruptions. Transgenerational effects are indicated by the increased thyroid hormones both in eggs (maternal source) and in developed larvae (newly synthesized), as well as disrupted transcriptional profiles of key genes in HPT axis. The overall results suggest that the accumulated TBP could be transmitted from parent to offspring and generate thyroid endocrine disruptions in both generations. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Safety requirements for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have become increasingly stringent with the rapid development of LIBs. We synthesize composite flame-retardant electrolyte additives (pentafluoroethoxy cyclotriphosphazene and dimethylacetamide) for LIBs to improve the safety performance of LIBs during use. The study tests the electrochemical performance of LIBs whose electrolytes contain the aforementioned additives using an electrochemical workstation and a LIB parameter tester. An experiment on self-extinguishing time is conducted to test the flame retardancy and ionic conductivity of the prepared composite flame-retardant electrolytes. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetry are conducted to test the cathode materials of the LIBs after cycling at different heating rates. Various nonisothermal thermodynamic models are used to analyze the experimental DSC data, and the cathode materials' apparent activation energy and thermodynamic parameters are obtained. Finally, multivariate linear fitting is conducted to simulate the thermal decomposition reaction of the cathode materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel polymer ammonium salt of polyethyleneimine phosphate phosphonic acid (APEMPPA) flame retardant for cotton fabrics was synthesized and characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), in which some ammonium phosphoric acid groups were replaced by phosphate ester groups to decrease the phenomena that the ammonium ions in flame retardant would exchange with metal ions such as Ca2+ and Mg2+ in washing water to keep flame retardance well after washing. Energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) results, and durability of treated cotton fabrics suggested that APEMPPA was grafted onto the cellulose. Limiting oxygen index (LOI) of 40 wt% APEMPPA-treated cotton fabric was 44.5 %, which was still 34.7 % after 50 LCs according to AATCC 61-2013 3A standard. Cone calorimetric and thermogravimetric (TG) results showed the treated cotton fabrics had excellent flame retardancy. TG-FTIR and Raman test results proposed that APEMPPA mainly played a condensed phase flame retardant. EDX results indicated that replacing some ammonium phosphate groups with phosphate ester groups was effective in maintaining flame retardancy during washing. All results showed that increasing the molecular weight and introducing phosphonate group in ammonium phosphorus acid flame retardant can effectively improve flame retardancy and durability. APEMPPA-treated cotton fabrics maintained good tensile strength. [Display omitted] • The APEMPPA grafted on cellulose through P–O–C covalent bonds. • Increasing the molecular weight of flame retardants at the same time introducing phosphate ester groups is an effective way to improve washing resistance. • The APEMPPA-treated cotton has high durability, could pass AATCC 61-2013 3A standard 50LCs. • The tensile strength of cotton fabric treated with 40wt%APEMPPA almost did not decrease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multifunctional cotton fabric was prepared through a two-step layer-by-layer spray coating method, where the first layer of the coating comprising chitosan and ammonium phytate provided fire retardancy, and the second one with PDMS-ZnO composite imparted hydrophobicity to the fabric. A molecular dynamics (MD) simulation study was carried out to calculate interfacial adhesion of different components of the coating, based on which the sequencing of the coating layers was determined and used to prepare coated samples. The coated fabric demonstrated a significant improvement in fire retardancy through an increase in LOI from 18 % in control to 30 %, a reduction in char length from 30 cm to 7 cm, and a decrease in peak and total heat release rate values by 75 % and 33 %, respectively. The hydrophobicity of coated fabric was tested via water drop test where coated sample maintained a contact angle of 148° for up to 120 s, while the control sample showed 0°. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]