Comparative Studies on the Physico-Mechanical Properties of Polyurethane Foams Derived from Bio-Based Polyols
Eucharia Agborma Emeka-Chioke
Department of Industrial Chemistry, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu State, Nigeria.
Kingsley John Orie
Department of Pure and Industrial Chemistry, University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.
Okechukwu Paul Nsude
Department of Industrial Chemistry, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu State, Nigeria.
Prisca Ifeoma Udeozo
Department of Industrial Chemistry, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu State, Nigeria.
Simon Onyia
Department of Pure and Industrial Chemistry, Faculty of Physical Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
The production of bio-based polyurethane foam (PUF) is a difficult process that necessitates substantial research. This paper describes the synthesis of PUFs from polyol derived from petroleum, castor oil, and shea butter fat. Polyurethane foams were produced in a single step using similar compositions of polyols, surfactant, catalyst, and isocyanate. The different polyol sources had an impact on the physico-mechanical properties of petroleum castor oil polyurethane foam (PPF), castor oil polyurethane foam (COPF), and Shea butter fat polyurethane foam (SBFPUF). In terms of isocyanate-water reaction and swelling time, SBFPF outperforms COPF in cream and gel time. SBPF absorbed more water and had a larger apparent density than COPE. The high water absorption values in this study imply heavily cross-linked and complex foam formations with low impermeability. SBPF has greater tensile and compression strengths than COPF; however, COPF has better oil absorption and wear/abrasion resistance than SBPF. Castor oil-derived polyols had a greater impact on the oil absorption of polyurethane foams (PUFs) than SBF-polyols. Castor oil and SBF polyols, on the other hand, had comparable wear and abrasion effects. The increased compressive and tensile strengths of the foam demonstrate its load-bearing capability. The different sources of the polyols had a significant impact on the PUF alterations. Insulation, packaging, refrigeration, and other materials use castor oil and SBF polyurethane foams (PUFs). These foams' physico-mechanical properties make them appropriate for a variety of applications.
Keywords: Bio-based polyols, foams, physico-mechanical, polyurethane