Science and Technology of Rigid Polyurethane Foams

This course has the main purpose to serve as a general introduction to the rigid polyurethane foam (RPUF) industry. RPUF are a key material within the industry and the contents of this course are tackled withouth the rigor of presenting the complex chemistry behind the process. We emphasize on industrial aspects such as materials, characterization techniques and technologies.

The content is divided into four sections, the first section being an introduction one, where generalities of the polyurethane field are presented. In the second section we focus on the main concepts of RPUFs, emphasizing on the materials that are used and the formulations and microstructure of RPUFs. We give specific details of polyols and isocyanates used in formulations as well as surfactants, catalysts and additives.

The third section deals with the main properties and characterization techniques of RPUFs. We present this complex field in a simplified way, so as to have a grasp of the most relevant concepts without going into the details of each property and characterization technique. Finally, the last sections deals with technologies and applications of RPUFs.

We handle the content using the most relevant applications, such as batch foaming, sandwich panels as well as spray polyurethane foam.