“Aerogel-like” polysiloxane-polyurethane hybrid foams with enhanced mechanical and thermal-insulating properties

New organic-inorganic polyurethane-based hybrids with enhanced mechanical properties and thermal insulation are reported. Polyurethane-based characterized by the intimate interactions of their inorganic organic co-networks prepared sol-gel approach, have exhibited exceeding those polyurethane foams, e.g. stability, durability insulating effectiveness. However, previously been poor. Here, new porous materials consisting a network modified in-situ formation aerogel-like polysiloxane domains, were developed. They exhibit multiscale-porosity which enhances insulation, properties. The synthesis was performed through novel stepwise process of: preparation siloxane precursor based on methyl-triethoxysilane tetraethoxysilane; functionalization traditional polyol for foams 3-(triethoxysilanepropyl)isocyanate as coupling agent; use suitable catalysts silicone surfactants; foaming methylene-di-isocyanate compound. precursors agent led to “aerogel-like” domains within walls struts foams. method enabled increased incorporation structures into compared literature, 20 wt% SiO2, reducing conductivity hybrid 30% pristine polyurethane, in addition significant improvement stability