In response to the growing use of the combination of CPVC and spray polyurethane foam products (SPF) the Center for the Polyurethane Industry (CPI) and the Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance (SPFA), along with Lubrizol Advanced Materials, Inc., a leading CPVC resin manufacturer, have conducted a study which assesses the compatibility of generic SPF and CPVC pipe and fittings. This research program has allowed the industry to assess the chemical, physical, and thermal compatibility of soy and non-soy based closedcell polyurethane foam, soy and non-soy based open-cell polyurethane foam, and one component foam with CPVC pipe and fittings. Industry testing and current ASTM test protocols involve soaking the CPVC pipe in a liquid or solvent material. Foam presents an interesting challenge for compatibility testing since CPVC/foam compatibility does not involve the long term liquid contact of materials. Instead, the contact point is multi-cellular foam on a smooth plastic surface. This paper discusses the outcome of sample testing and includes a physical and analytical assessment of the foam and CPVC. Of particular interest, is the interaction between phosphate ester flame retardants, which have been linked to CPVC pipe failures due to contact with other substances, the long term and short term effects of variables such as foam exotherm, phosphate ester type and concentration, as well as soy polyols. This program will provide a basis for an ongoing industry program to evaluate SPF products with plastic building materials.
展开▼
