polyuretanskumsbaserade

Polyuretanskum, commonly known as polyurethane foam, is a versatile polymer foam produced by reacting polyols with diisocyanates or polyisocyanates in the presence of blowing agents and catalysts to form a cellular structure. Depending on formulation, the foam can be rigid or flexible. Rigid polyurethane foam offers high thermal resistance and low density, making it suitable for insulation panels, sandwich cores, and building envelopes. Flexible polyurethane foam is softer and resilient, used in furniture cushions, mattresses, car seats, and packaging.

Production involves a two-component system that combines a polyol resin with an isocyanate, along with water or another blowing agent, catalysts, surfactants, and additives. The blowing agent generates gas bubbles as the polymer forms, producing closed-cell structures in rigid foams and open-cell structures in flexible foams. Formulations are tailored for density, mechanical strength, flame retardancy, and moisture resistance.

Applications include construction insulation and spray foams, refrigeration and appliances, automotive interiors, packaging, and protective gear. Advantages include low thermal conductivity, energy efficiency, and good resilience; limitations include potential health hazards from isocyanates and environmental concerns related to blowing agents and foam additives. Modern systems often use less harmful blowing agents and bio-based polyols to reduce environmental impact.

End-of-life options are limited but include mechanical recycling where feasible and energy recovery; ongoing research seeks chemical recycling and more sustainable formulations.