Rigid foam blowing agents

Foam density is largely a function of the concentration of blowing agents. There has been a strong development towards the use of less expanded, i.e. higher density rigid cellular polyurethanes. This includes not only the so-called structural foams for simulated wood but also unexpanded solid materials used for brush handles and gun stocks. This range is clearly indicated in Table 27.4. ... 

Dichlorofluoro-ethane (CCI2FCH5) The leading substitute blowing agent for CFC-11 in rigid foam insulation applications such as construction (commercial, residential, and public), appliances, and transport vehicles. 

Most thermoplastics and thermosets can be foamed, many of them into either flexible or rigid foams. The choice is controlled by the blowing agent, additives, surfactants, and mechanical handling. Some polymers can be expanded as much as 40 times their original density and still retain a substantial part of their strength. Most commercial foams are expanded to derisities of two to five pounds per cubic foot. (Water is 62 pounds per cubic foot.)... 

The aromatic polyols resulting from the reaction can be mixed with commercial polyols, blowing agents, surfactants, catalysts, and polymeric isocyanates to produce a rigid polyurethane foam. n compared w control foams produced from commercially available polyester polyols, the foams produced from reclaimed materials were found to have essentially the same properties. 

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