Morphological and Thermo-Mechanical Characterization of Open-Cell Spray Polyurethane Foamed Wall Insulation Modified With Cellulose Fiber

摘要

Open-cell spray polyurethane foam insulation was prepared using the soy-based polyol and water as blowing agent. Cellulose fiber was embedded in polymer matrix as reinforcement and the effects of fiber on morphological changes, as well as thermal and mechanical properties of the foam insulation were investigated. The foam was characterized at cellular level by FTIR and SEM and it was demonstrated that incorporation of fiber in open-cell foam insulation altered the foaming structure. Cell density increased and became more homogeneous. Bulk density and compressive strength of the composite foam system were improved. Thermal effectiveness of the composite foam was improved at lower fiber concentration. Moisture permeability was reduced. However,at higher fiber content the reinforcement effect weakened due to agglomeration of fiber.