A promising use of Kimberlite clay on sustainable polyurethane foams

Author(s)

Pinto, Roberta C. ; Pereira, Paulo H. F. ; Maia, Lana S. ; Silva, Tadeu L. S. E. ; Faria, Maria Ismenia S. D. ; Rosa, Derval S. ; Mulinari, Daniella R.

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: APPLIED CLAY SCIENCE; v. 258, p. 12-pg., 2024-06-29.

Abstract

The present study introduces a novel approach to incorporating Kimberlite clay (Kl) as a polyurethane foam (PU) filler. The polyurethane/Kl foam composites (PU/Kl) formulation varied in clay percentage (10% and 20%). The properties of both neat PU and PU/Kl foams were characterized by morphological analyses (OM, FE-SEM, and Density), chemical (FTIR), physical (XRD, and EDXRF), contact angle (WCA), water absorption, thermal (TG/ DTG), and mechanical properties (compressive strength). Morphological analysis revealed that PU/Kl foams exhibited open pores and a heterogeneous dispersion compared to the uniform structure of neat PU. The infrared analysis demonstrated that Kl clay was a nucleating agent within the PU matrix, leading to PU/Kl foams with higher Density, hydrophobic characteristics, and greater crystallinity. The samples exhibited changes in thermal stability, showing a slight increase (PU/20%KI) compared to neat PU and indicating a substantial interaction between Kl clay and the polymer chain. The findings suggest that the incorporation of Kl clay enhances the thermal and mechanical performances of PU foams, making them promising materials for various applications, including civil construction, car interior accessories, lining, and oil sorption. The reduction in chlorine content in the structure of PU foams through the insertion of Kl clay was also identified, promoting the development of ecofriendly foams. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of Kl clay and encourages its broader utilization in PU foam applications. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 21/14714-1 - Multi-user equipment approved in grant 2020/13703-3: Cromatógrafo de Íons Modular 940 Professional IC Vario
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