Comparative Study on Selected Properties of Modified Polyurethane Foam with Fly Ash

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Chemical Engineering
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Pulverized fly ash (PFA) is a common building material filler.
• Fluidized fly ash (FFA) is currently landfilled, representing a waste stream.
• Polyurethane (PU) foams are versatile materials with potential for sustainable filler integration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of PFA and FFA as fillers in rigid polyurethane foam.
• To analyze the impact of fly ash addition on foam synthesis, physical properties, morphology, and thermal degradation.
• To assess the environmental and economic benefits of using fly ash in PU foam production.

Main Methods:

• Rigid polyurethane foams were produced with 5% and 10% additions of PFA and FFA.
• Comparative analysis of foaming process, physical properties (e.g., density, strength), morphology (SEM), and thermal degradation (TGA).
• Evaluation of compliance with circular economy principles and energy consumption reduction.

Main Results:

• Fly ash addition, particularly 10% PFA, intensified PU foam synthesis reactions.
• Both PFA and FFA can be incorporated into PU foam without compromising physical parameters.
• Fly ash fillers modified foam morphology and reduced brittleness.
• Use of fly ash aligns with EU circular economy guidelines and reduces energy consumption.

Conclusions:

• Fluidized and pulverized fly ash are viable fillers for rigid polyurethane foam.
• Incorporating fly ash enhances foam properties and promotes sustainable material development.
• Utilizing FFA as a filler offers a solution for waste management and supports circular economy initiatives.