The Introduction of Myo-Inositol in the Synthesis of Rigid Polyurethane-Polyisocyanurate (RPU/PIR) Foams and Its...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Chemical Engineering

Background:

• Polyurethane/polyisocyanurate (PU/PIR) foams are widely used but can degrade over time.
• Improving foam durability and performance is crucial for various applications.
• Myo-inositol is a naturally occurring sugar alcohol with potential as a foam additive.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of incorporating myo-inositol (In) into PU/PIR foams.
• To evaluate the effects on foam structure, degradation, and performance properties.
• To assess changes in strength, absorbency, and flammability.

Main Methods:

• Myo-inositol was added to PU/PIR foam formulations.
• Foams were subjected to controlled degradation in a specialized chamber.
• Key parameters including cell diameter, compressive strength, water absorption, and flammability were measured.

Main Results:

• Myo-inositol addition reduced foam cell diameter and decreased water absorption.
• Compressive strength of the foams increased.
• Flammability was reduced, indicated by increased retention and decreased burning rate.
• Degraded foam thickness increased by ~30% with 13 wt.% myo-inositol addition.

Conclusions:

• Myo-inositol incorporation positively influences PU/PIR foam properties.
• The additive enhances mechanical strength, reduces flammability, and improves degradation resistance.
• Myo-inositol shows promise as a performance-enhancing additive for rigid PU/PIR foams.