We are pleased to once again present a study by our working group in the journal Polymers. In their current publication, Fabian Weitenhagen and Oliver Weichold present an innovative modular system for the production of bio-based polyester foams in which the reaction water itself serves as a blowing agent – without any external additives. The work shows how a versatile foam system can be developed through the targeted selection of bio-based dicarboxylic acids and various polyols. By systematically varying these building blocks, mechanical properties such as hardness, density, thermal conductivity and thermal stability can be flexibly adapted. Particularly noteworthy are the significantly improved fire properties compared to many organic materials.
A particular highlight of the work is the scanning electron microscope (SEM) images, which provide a detailed insight into the internal structure of the foams. Compact cell walls without microporosity become visible, whereby the pore structure is specifically influenced by the varying densities.
SEM images of polyester resin foams with low (A) and higher (B) density.
Weitenhagen, F.; Weichold, O.
Preparation, Reaction Kinetics, and Properties of Polyester Foams Using Water Produced by the Reaction as a Foaming Agent.
Polymers 2025, 17, 1266. https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17091266
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