Studies of the Influence of Graphite on the Physical Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Polyurethane Foams for Construction Applications

Abstract

The paper shows the applicability of expandable graphite METOPAC EG 350-50 (80) in a rigid PU foam system as a substance that reduces the flammability (flame retardant) and improves the usability. The studies of the physical mechanical and thermal properties of PU foam with a higher graphite content revealed a higher normal sound absorption coefficient; insignificant influence on the thermal conductivity; a higher decomposition onset temperature; more difficult ignition. PU foam sample with a ratio of 15 graphite weight fractions to 100 polyol weight fractions has the highest physical mechanical and thermal properties, and, as compared to the starting PU foam, it features an increase in normal sound absorption coefficient by an average of 3 times; a decrease in the thermal conductivity by 8 %; an increase in the decomposition onset temperature by 6.7 °С. Therefore, the modification of PU foam with expandable graphite makes it possible not only to develop hardly combustible polyurethanes but also to improve its physical mechanical and thermal properties.