Polyurethane Composite Foams Synthesized Using Bio-Polyols and Cellulose Filler

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Sustainable Materials

Background:

• Polyurethane foams are widely used as insulation materials.
• There is a growing demand for sustainable and renewable raw materials in polymer production.
• Bio-based polyols and natural fillers offer potential alternatives to petrochemical-based components.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of cellulose filler on the properties of rigid polyurethane foams.
• To evaluate the use of renewable raw materials, specifically bio-polyols and cellulose, in foam production.
• To characterize the cellular structure and thermal insulation performance of the modified foams.

Main Methods:

• Rigid polyurethane foams were synthesized using rapeseed oil-based polyols and cellulose filler (ARBOCEL® P 4000 X).
• Cellulose filler was incorporated at 1, 2, and 3 php (per hundred polyols) into the polyol premix.
• Cellulose filler characteristics were analyzed using powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR).
• Foam morphology, cell structure, and thermal conductivity were evaluated.

Main Results:

• Cellulose filler addition increased cell count and reduced cell size in polyurethane foams.
• The foams exhibited a high closed-cell content (>90%).
• The initial thermal conductivity coefficient was measured at 24.8 mW/m·K.
• The insulation materials demonstrated excellent dimensional stability, particularly near 0 °C.

Conclusions:

• Renewable raw materials, including bio-polyols and cellulose filler, can be effectively used to produce rigid polyurethane foams.
• Cellulose modification enhances foam morphology, leading to improved insulation potential.
• These bio-based polyurethane foams are suitable for low-temperature insulation applications due to their stability and thermal performance.