Ionic liquids with high thermal stability, non-volatility and good solubility are often used as green solvents and catalysts. Recently, the application of ionic liquids in flame retardant polymers is increasing. In this paper, the application and progress of ionic liquid as flame retardant in polymers are reviewed, including the main types, synthesis, mechanism, action mode and application of ionic liquid in different polymers. The catalytic carbonization of ionic liquid and multi-element synergy flame retardant mechanism are widely accepted. In terms of the future trend of ionic liquids, halogen-free and nano-flame retardant compounds show great potential in future. In addition, the designability of ionic liquids provides an opportunity for the synthesis of new flame retardants and broadens the application of polymer flame retardants by ionic liquids.

ionic liquid  /  polymer  /  flame retardant mechanism