Abstract: The research progress of silicon flame retardants and their application were reviewed. The thermal stability and fire retardant properties as well as flame retardant mechanism of both inorganic and organic silicon flame retardant systems were introduced, including those based on layered silicate, silica, cage-like polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS). Intrinsic flame retardant polymers were also discussed.

Key words: Silicon flame retardant, inherent flame retardant polymers, polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane, flame retardant mechanism