Abstract
Semi-rigid composites of polyurethane foams (SRPUF) modified with the addition of keratin flour from poultry feathers and flame retardant additives were manufactured. Ten percent by mass of keratin fibers was added to the foams as well as halogen-free flame retardant additives such as Fyrol PNX, expandable graphite, metal oxides, in amounts such that their total mass did not exceed 15%. Thermal and mechanical properties were tested. Water absorption, dimensional stability, apparent density and flammability of produced foams were determined. It was found that the use of keratin fibers and flame retardant additives changes the foam synthesis process, changes their structure and properties as well as their combustion process. The addition of the filler made of keratin fibers significantly limits the amount of smoke generated during foam burning. The most favorable reduction of heat and smoke release rate was observed for foams with the addition of 10% keratin fibers and 10% expandable graphite. Systems of reducing combustibility of polyurethane foams using keratin fillers are a new solution on a global scale.
Highlights
During recent years there has been a sharp increase in the use of natural fillers in the production of polymer materials
Obtained rigid polyurethane foams were characterized by infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis and scanning electron microscopy
Semi-rigid polyurethane foams (SRPUR) were manufactured containing 10% of keratin fibers and compounds that increase their resistance to fire
Summary
During recent years there has been a sharp increase in the use of natural fillers in the production of polymer materials. This was mainly due to the low price of the raw material derived from biomass, good usable properties of the polymer materials produced and ecological aspects. Pro-ecological activities have become an important element in the development of the PUR plastics industry. They mainly include partial or complete replacement of polyols of petrochemical origin with their plant counterparts and the introduction of so-called bio-fillers into the foam recipes [2,3,4]
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