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Title: Lignin-Based Low-Density Rigid Polyurethane/Polyisocyanurate Foams

Journal Article · · Industrial and Engineering Chemistry Research

In this paper, unmodified kraft softwood lignin was utilized to fully replace the petroleum-based polyol for the first time in low-density rigid polyurethane/polyisocyanurate (PUR/PIR) foam. The effects of different lignin incorporation levels (0, 25, 50, 75, and 100%) on foam properties were investigated by measuring foam’s reactivity, polyol viscosity (using a rheometer), apparent density, compression strength, closed cell content (using a gas pycnometer), thermal conductivity, fire resistance, and morphology (observed through SEM). All formulated lignin-based foams met the ASTM minimum requirements for type 1 rigid insulation foams. Remarkably, the foam made by replacing 100% of the petrochemical polyol with the commercially available kraft lignin demonstrated outstanding fire resistance performance, reducing the burn length by 127%.

Research Organization:
Clemson Univ., SC (United States); Michigan State Univ., East Lansing, MI (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE), Office of Sustainable Transportation. Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO)
Grant/Contract Number:
EE0008502
OSTI ID:
2004973
Journal Information:
Industrial and Engineering Chemistry Research, Vol. 62, Issue 18; ISSN 0888-5885
Publisher:
American Chemical Society (ACS)Copyright Statement
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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