Identification of the Environmental Impact of Polyurethane Foams Using Ansys Granta Selector

Abstract

Before a new polymer material is placed on the market, it should be compulsory to assess its environmental impact at different stages of its life cycle. The main objective of the study was to identify the environmental impact of the production of polyurethane (PUR) foams. Ansys Granta Selector software was used to analyze this aspect. The environmental characteristic of material production included: embodied energy [MJ/kg], CO2 footprint [kg/kg], and water usage [l/kg]. The Eco Audits of PUR foams, based on natural fillers, were investigated. The study showed that PURs generate significantly less CO2 at the production stage compared to other foams. Furthermore, the modification of PUR foams can reduce the CO2 footprint.

Keywords

• polyurethane foams, eco audit, environmental characteristic, CO2 footprint, ansys granta selector