Residues from rigid foams and graphene for the synthesis of hybrid polyurethane flexible foams composites

Abstract

Hybrid biobased polyurethane flexible foam composites containing a residue from surf industry (polyurethane powder) as filler and graphite or graphene residue were synthesized. It was observed that the addition of the powder at low contents did not modify the final properties considerably, since the cell structure was not compromised. Moreover, the powder increased the capacity of the foams to retain the carbonaceous fillers. The compressive properties of the hybrid foams were not altered with the addition of the graphite and graphene. Finally, hybrid composites showed selective absorption capacity since the presence of the carbonaceous fillers provided the foams oil absorption capacity without modifying the hydrophobic nature of the matrix foams.

Keywords

• Mechanical recycling
• Polyurethane wastes
• Graphene residue
• Graphite
• Hybrid flexible foam composites
• Biobased polyol