Impact of filler and gelling catalyst/agent on properties of flexible polyurethane foam

Abstract

In this study, the physiomechanical properties of carboxymethylcellulose sodium salt (Na‐CMC salt) filler‐loaded foam and its impact on the wicking capacity of the foam were investigated in juxtaposition with the increasing tin concentration. According to the study's findings, standard unfilled foam demonstrated no wicking at all, while flexible PU foam filled with Na‐CMC salt, even with low porosity and subpar mechanical traits, displayed wicking heights of 4 mm, 3.4 mm, and 2.8 mm in test specimens of thicknesses of 6 mm, 8 mm, and 10 mm. Moreover, filled foam with a higher porosity level exhibited significantly better wicking heights of 11.4 mm, 10.8 mm, and 8.2 mm. The inclusion of CMC filler in the PU foam matrix is the reason for enhanced wicking property in foam. The sample thickness and wicking height trends are consistent among all foams; as foam sample thickness increases, wicking height progressively falls. The correlation between the foam's porosity value and the number of closed cell windows is confirmed by stereomicroscopy and the porosity values. According to this study, the infused filler's characteristics have a greater influence on the foam's wicking capacity than the foam's porosity. This study contributes significant insights into ongoing initiatives to enhance user experience, well‐being, and hygiene through innovative and meticulously designed new developed mattress foam using Na‐CMC as a filler.Highlights Co‐relation between concentration of tin and infused filler on wicking property. Standard unfilled foam demonstrated no wicking at all. Na‐CMC salt filled foam displayed wicking heights. After 15% increase in tin level, mechanical properties of foam degrade. Wicking depends on nature of infused filler and the foam's porosity.