Composites of Semi-Rigid Polyurethane Foams with Keratin Fibers Derived from Poultry Feathers and Flame Retardant Additives

Abstract

Semi-rigid composites of polyurethane foams (SRPUF) modified with the addition of keratin flour from poultry feathers and flame retardant additives were manufactured. Ten percent by mass of keratin fibers was added to the foams as well as halogen-free flame retardant additives such as Fyrol PNX, expandable graphite, metal oxides, in amounts such that their total mass did not exceed 15%. Thermal and mechanical properties were tested. Water absorption, dimensional stability, apparent density and flammability of produced foams were determined. It was found that the use of keratin fibers and flame retardant additives changes the foam synthesis process, changes their structure and properties as well as their combustion process. The addition of the filler made of keratin fibers significantly limits the amount of smoke generated during foam burning. The most favorable reduction of heat and smoke release rate was observed for foams with the addition of 10% keratin fibers and 10% expandable graphite. Systems of reducing combustibility of polyurethane foams using keratin fillers are a new solution on a global scale.

Vacuum-Based Impregnation of Liquid Glass into Sunflower Press Cake Particles and Their Use in Bio-Based Rigid Polyurethane Foam

“…Similar observations were reported in casein/apricot filler modified PUR foam composites [ 31 ]. However, the authors of [ 32 ] determined that the incorporation of keratin fibres increased the dimensional stability of PUR foams while Fyrol slightly deteriorated the mentioned parameter. Such differences might be associated with the cellular structure, i.e., average cell size, the thickness of cell walls, closed-cell content and, of course, the blowing agent used.…”

Bio-Based Rigid Polyurethane Foams Modified with Phosphorus Flame Retardants

“…In the gas phase, the radicals resulting from the decomposition of the flame retardant recombine with the hydrogen (H • ) and hydroxide (OH • ) radicals, stopping the oxidation reactions [ 16 ]. Expanded graphite [ 9 , 17 ], aluminum hydroxide [ 18 ], magnesium hydroxide [ 19 ], ammonium polyphosphate [ 20 ], as well as layered clay [ 21 ] are also frequently used substances. However, to achieve an acceptable reduction in the flammability of PUR, inorganic substances often have to be used in large amounts, which adversely affect the structure of the material and the physical and mechanical properties [ 22 ].…”

“…Effective flame retardancy is also ensured by compounds containing chlorine or bromine in their structure. However, the use of these compounds is currently limited due to their toxicity and negative environmental impact [ 18 , 23 , 24 ].…”

Biodegradable Nonwovens with Poultry Feather Addition as a Method for Recycling and Waste Management

“…This polymer can be obtained from sheep wool, poultry feathers, horn, nails and many other sources. Its chemical properties allow for the use of keratin as a thermoset material, which can be linked to other polymers [8][9][10][11]. Biodegradability, biocompatibility and fire-retardant capability are among the valuable properties of keratin [8].…”