Preparation and Effect of Methyl-Oleate-Based Polyol on the Properties of Rigid Polyurethane Foams as Potential Thermal Insulation Material

Recently, most of the commercial polyols used in production rigid polyurethane foams (RPUFs) have been derived from petrochemicals. Therefore, introduction modified palm oil derivatives-based polyol as a renewable material into formulation RPUFs is focus this study. A derivative—namely, methyl oleate (MO)—was successfully through three steps reactions: epoxidation reaction, ring-opened with glycerol, followed by amidation reaction to produce bio-based named alkanolamide polyol. Physicochemical properties were analyzed. The hydroxyl value was 313 mg KOH/g, which suitable for producing RPUFs. produced replacing petrochemical effects on physical, mechanical and thermal evaluated. results showed that apparent density compressive strength increased, cell size decreased, upon introducing All exhibited low water absorption excellent dimensional stability. made increased amounts higher conductivity. Nevertheless, conductivities are still within range insulating materials (<0.1 W/m.K). stability improved addition system. Thus, potential candidates be insulation refrigerators or freezers.