In applications above the water-loss range of ATH (i.e., around 200°C), MDH can be used where ATH cannot. They both work by water release (heat sink and fuel dilution) and leave a barrier. Combinations of ATH and MDH often show a better-than-additive effect. In chlorinated polymers with antimony trioxide, magnesium hydroxide generally provides not only enhanced flame retardancy but lower smoke.
A recent patent shows improved flame retardant performance of MDH in an ethylene elastomer by use of a maleic polyethylene graft compatibilizer.
The flame retardant performance of MDH can be synergized by zinc borate (Marshall Additive Technologies CT ZB400). In general, zinc borate is useful as a synergist with MDH at about a 1:10 to 1:5 weight ratio. At a 5:1 ratio of MDH to ZB, a total loading of 64% gives a V0 rating and LOI of 39 in EVA. This lower loading permits the use of a higher molecular weight EVA with adequate processing rheology.
Calcium borate on a silicate carrier such as wollastonite has been marketed as an effective synergist for MDH in polyethylene-ethylene vinyl acetate.