Composite Foams from Recycled Polymers
摘要
Composite foams obtained from recycled polymers are characterised with low volume density, relatively high mechanical strength and durability and as a result should be cheaper than commercial polymeric foams. In our research we are using recycled polyurethane foams in the form of rectangular pieces roughly 1 cm × 1 cm × 0.5 cm from mattresses or car armchairs. These PU pieces are bonded together in metal form placed in hot press or in RT conditions with bonding solution—solvent glue or polyurethane liquid prepolymer. To strengthen the foam there is added component acting as additional bonding layer—hot melt glue additive—polyvinylbutyrate originating from recycled car glass windows. Changing foam composition, temperature, time and pressure during hot press forming we can obtain recycled foams with different densities and mechanical properties.