Application of Whisker-Toughened Aerogel to Recycling of Used Polyurethane Sheets
2024

Recycling Waste Polyurethane Sheets with Whisker-Toughened Aerogel

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Gu Xiaohua, Chen Jiatong, Zhu Shangwen, Zhao Qinglong, Zhang Yanxun, Su Qingyong

Primary Institution: Guilin University of Aerospace Technology

Hypothesis

Can whisker-toughened SiO2 aerogel improve the recycling process of waste polyurethane sheets?

Conclusion

The study found that whisker-toughened aerogel significantly enhances the mechanical properties and thermal stability of recycled polyurethane materials.

Supporting Evidence

  • The whisker-toughened aerogel improved the viscosity of degraded polyurethane materials.
  • The optimal compressive strength of the composite reached 817.93 MPa.
  • The thermal conductivity of the recycled polyurethane foam was measured at 0.0228 W/(m·K).
  • The study provides new methods for recycling waste polyurethane and developing thermal insulation materials.

Takeaway

This study shows how adding special whiskers to a type of gel can help recycle old foam materials into new, strong, and heat-resistant foam.

Methodology

The study used a sol-gel method to prepare SiO2 aerogel and tested its effectiveness in recycling waste polyurethane sheets.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.3390/gels10120793

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