Open-Cell Spray Polyurethane Foams Based on Biopolyols from Fruit Seed Oils

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Sustainable Engineering

Background:

• Polyurethane foams are widely used but rely on petrochemical polyols.
• There is a growing need for sustainable alternatives to petroleum-based materials.
• Fruit seed oils offer a potential renewable resource for biopolyol synthesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the feasibility of producing open-cell polyurethane foams using biopolyols derived from natural fruit seed oils.
• To compare the properties of foams produced at laboratory and industrial scales.
• To analyze the impact of foaming methods on foam characteristics and performance.

Main Methods:

• Biopolyols were synthesized from watermelon, cherry, black currant, grape, and pomegranate seed oils via transesterification.
• Polyurethane foam systems were developed by fully replacing petrochemical polyol with synthesized biopolyols.
• Foam preparation was conducted at both laboratory and industrial scales, with variations in foaming methods analyzed.

Main Results:

• The foaming method significantly influenced the process, cell structure, and thermal insulation properties of the resulting foams.
• Industrial-scale production resulted in foams with higher cell density and improved physical-mechanical properties compared to laboratory-scale production.
• Open-cell biofoams produced industrially exhibited apparent densities of 12-17 kg/m³, thermal conductivity of 35-37 mW/m·K, and <10% closed-cell content.

Conclusions:

• It is feasible to prepare open-cell polyurethane foams by completely replacing petrochemical polyols with fruit seed oil-derived biopolyols.
• Industrial-scale processing using high-pressure machinery leads to superior foam properties, including enhanced cell density and dimensional stability.
• These biofoams demonstrate potential as sustainable alternatives in applications requiring good thermal insulation and mechanical performance.