HCFC-141b has been the most popular liquid blowing agent for polyurethane integral skin foam since last decade. HCFC-141b categorized as an ozone depletion substance (ODS), was banned in some applications especially integral skin foam by Taiwan EPA (Environmental Protection Administration) to comply with Montreal Protocol. Therefore, an environmentally friendly material is urgently needed to replace HCFC-141b this year. Water chemical blowing and SOLKANE 365/227 were the most potential candidates, which would replace HCFC-141b as the blowing agent for polyurethane integral skin foam. Re-condensation of the blowing agent from the exothermic reaction system onto the cooler mould surface during the foaming process is an essential element in the formation of skin layer. A morphology model has already been proposed by Shutov, which concerns with polyurethane integral skin foam (Macromol. Chem., Macromol. Symp. 2, 1986). SOLKANE 365/227 and water blown polyurethane integral skin foams were tested respectively and compared with conventional HCFC-141b blown polyurethane integral skin foam. Particularly, SEM (Scanning Electronic Microscopy) technology is used to study the influence of the factors (i.e. the blowing agent, the overall density, the processing parameters and the position of the foam sample taken) on intermediate layer morphology. SOLKANE 365/227 showed significant result as the blowing agent for polyurethane integral skin foam. Typical arm rests of polyurethane integral skin foam, consisting of an outer skin and an inner core foam for shock absorption and comfort, which been line tested satisfactorily. The investigation information contained within could be presented as a reference for the complete replacement of HCFC-141b in the polyurethane integral skin foam, which, subsequently, would be aimed toward the final goal solving global environmental problems by the ozone depletion substance (ODS).
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