Fire Smart DDE Polymers

The chemistry and properties of polymers containing the “fire smart” moiety 1,1-dichloro-2,2-diphenylethene (DDE) are described. These polymers are typically derived from the bisphenol of chloral (bisphenol-C/BPC) and are low cost, easily processed, and have good mechanical properties and toughness under normal conditions. Under fire conditions, the DDE group undergoes an intramolecular rearrangement with the elimination of hydrogen chloride (a noncombustible gas) and intermolecular crosslinking to form an aromatic char residue in high yield. The flammability and mechanical properties of DDE-containing polymers are described.