At present, biomass foamlike materials are a hot research
topic,
but they need to be improved urgently due to their defects such as
large size shrinkage rate, poor mechanical strength, and easy hydrolysis.
In this study, the novel konjac glucomannan (KGM) composite aerogels
modified with hydrophilic isocyanate and expandable graphite were
prepared by a facile vacuum freeze-drying method. Compared with the
unmodified KGM aerogel, the volume shrinkage of the KGM composite
aerogel (KPU-EG) decreased from 36.36 ± 2.47% to 8.64 ±
1.46%. Additionally, the compressive strength increased by 450%, and
the secondary repeated compressive strength increased by 1476%. After
soaking in water for 28 days, mass retention after hydrolysis of the
KPU-EG aerogel increased from 51.26 ± 2.33% to more than 85%.
The UL-94 vertical combustion test showed that the KPU-EG aerogel
can achieve a V-0 rating, and the limiting oxygen index (LOI) value
of the modified aerogel can reach up to 67.3 ± 1.5%. To sum up,
the cross-linking modification of hydrophilic isocyanate can significantly
improve the mechanical properties, flame retardancy, and hydrolysis
resistance of KGM aerogels. We believe that this work can provide
excellent hydrolytic resistance and mechanical properties and has
broad application prospects in practical packaging, heat insulation,
sewage treatment, and other aspects.