Abstract:
Epoxy resin compositions having improved fire resistance are formed by the introduction into an epoxy resin composition of the type formed from epichlorohydrin and a dihydric phenol, of a small amount of a reactive hydroxy group containing polyvalent metal salt of either a dihydric phenol or a phenol-aldehyde resin of the novolac type. The resulting resins evidence increased charring of the surface when exposed to heating by a flame or undergoing combustion, the char acting as a barrier to heat transfer from the flame and retarding the flow of volatile gases from the pyrolyzing resin.