LDH Fire Retardant Technology Explained

The mechanism

Three defences that trigger together

A layered double hydroxide is built from stacked metal-hydroxide sheets. Between those sheets sit carbonate anions and water molecules. When fire raises the temperature, that stored chemistry goes to work.

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1. Heat absorption

Decomposition of the hydroxide layers is endothermic — it consumes energy from the flame front, lowering the temperature at the surface and delaying ignition.

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2. Water vapour release

Bound and interlayer water is released as vapour, diluting the flammable gases and oxygen a fire needs to keep spreading.

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3. Mineral shield

What remains is a thermally stable inorganic residue that insulates the material beneath — our TGA measured 82.4% residue at 899°C.

Why a colloid — easy to use

Mix it into paint or water, then just apply

Aeon Core is a fire-retardant additive, not a powder you fight to dissolve. Layered double hydroxide doesn't truly dissolve in water — but as a stable nano-colloid (~285 nm, confirmed by DLS) it stays evenly dispersed. So you can blend it straight into your paint or water and apply it like normal — no special equipment, no grit, no clumping.

Mix into paint — add fire protection to a coat you're already applying
Or dilute with water and brush, roll or spray on its own
Nano particles penetrate wood grain, paper and fabric fibres
Dries to an even, clear film — stable in the pack, re-disperses with a stir

Aeon Core LDH colloid mixed and applied across surfaces

TGA thermogravimetric analysis of Aeon Core LDH showing 82.36% residual mass at 899C

Backed by data

The chemistry is measurable

Our FTIR spectrum shows a strong hydroxyl (O–H) band at 3371 cm⁻¹ and bound water at 1634 cm⁻¹ — the water reservoir that drives the cooling effect. TGA shows staged, endothermic mass loss with the bulk of the material surviving as protective residue.

XRD confirms the crystalline LDH phase, and DLS measures a fine ~285 nm colloid that spreads and penetrates evenly.

See all four test results →

Application guide

How to apply Aeon Core LDH fire retardant

A clear, step-by-step routine for a durable, protective finish.

Prepare the substrate

Ensure the surface is clean, dry and free of dust, oil or grease. Lightly sand glossy surfaces for better adhesion.

Apply uniformly

Apply the gel evenly using a brush, roller or spray gun, depending on the size and shape of the area.

Dry to a clear finish

Allow the coating to dry completely to form a clear, protective layer. Ventilate the area while drying.

Recoat if needed

For high-exposure areas or heavier substrates, apply a second coat once the first has cured.

FAQ

LDH technology — your questions

What is LDH (layered double hydroxide)?

LDH is a class of layered mineral compounds — metal-hydroxide sheets with exchangeable anions (like carbonate) and water held between the layers. This structure lets LDH store and release water and absorb heat, which is exactly what makes it an effective, non-toxic flame retardant.

What is the difference between LDH and intumescent fire retardants?

Intumescent coatings swell into a foam char when heated. LDH works by endothermic decomposition — it absorbs heat, releases water vapour and leaves a stable inorganic residue. LDH is halogen-free, non-toxic and does not rely on producing large volumes of char, making it well suited to thin, clear coatings on wood, paper and fabric.

Why is halogen-free important?

Halogenated (brominated/chlorinated) flame retardants can release corrosive, toxic gases and dioxins when they burn, and several are restricted internationally. Halogen-free LDH avoids these hazards — on heating it gives off water vapour and inert residue.

How do I apply the coating?

Clean and dry the surface, apply Aeon Core evenly by brush, roller or spray, and let it dry to a clear finish. See the step-by-step guide below.

How LDH Fire Retardant Technology Works