Dog Wool Microparticles/Polyurethane Composite for Thermal Insulation.

Francisco Claudivan Da Silva,Helena P Felgueiras,Andrea Zille,José Ubiragi L Mendes,Késia Karina De O Souto Silva,Rasiah Ladchumananandasivam

doi:10.3390/polym12051098

Abstract

A polyurethane (PU)-based eco-composite foam was prepared using dog wool fibers as a filler. Fibers were acquired from pet shops and alkaline treated prior to use. The influence of their incorporation on the PU foams’ morphological, thermal, and mechanical properties was investigated. The random and disorganized presence of the microfibers along the foam influence their mechanical performance. Tensile and compression strengths were improved with the increased amount of dog wool microparticles on the eco-composites. The same occurred with the foams’ hydration capacity. The thermal capacity was also slightly enhanced with the incorporation of the fillers. The fillers also increased the thermal stability of the foams, reducing their dilatation with heating. The best structural stability was obtained using up to 120 °C with a maximum of 15% of filler. In the end, the dog wool waste was rationally valorized as a filler in PU foams, demonstrating its potential for insulation applications, with a low cost and minimal environmental impact.

Highlights

Global energy consumption is estimated to increase by 53% within the 10 years [1]
We explore the use of discarded dog wool fibers as a reinforcement agent in the production of PU-based eco-composites for thermal insulation
Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) micrographs of the dog wool fibers, in their natural state, treated with NaOH, and combined with the PU resin as reinforcement to form eco-composites were taken (Figure 2)

Summary

Introduction

Global energy consumption is estimated to increase by 53% within the 10 years [1]. One of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to reduce the energy demands and the greenhouse gas emissions is through building insulation. An effective insulation may save energy by requiring less for space cooling in the summer and heating in the winter, and reducing the use of natural resources (e.g., petroleum and gas) [2]. PU is formed of stiff and flexible segments, endowing PU foams with versatile properties and light weight and making them desirable for insulation. They are obtained by a reaction between polyfunctional alcohols (polyol polyether or polyol polyester) and polyisocyanate [4]

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Conclusion