Abstract
Due to the escalating interest in zero ODP (ozone depletion potential) blowing agents throughout the world, hydrocarbons are seriously being considered as potential candidates for rigid foam applications. However, many rigid foam applications require a certain degree of fire resistance, a characteristic which the flammable nature of hydrocarbons would seem to oppose. Last year we presented a paper which detailed our initial work with hydrocarbon-blown foams produced on a lab-scale high pressure machine [1]. In that work, several techniques were explored which improve the flame resistance of isocyanurate foams. These techniques included increased index, inclusion of phosphorous, and the use of inerting co-blowing agents. This paper will present further work concerning the flammability of rigid isocyanurate foams blown with hydrocarbons, with a particular emphasis on cyclopentane as the primary blowing agent.
In this study we have investigated the use of various foaming techniques to suppress flammability. As in our previous paper, all foams were produced on a high pressure foam machine. Options which were explored include fire retardants, co-blowing agents, and increased foam indices. Results from small-scale fire tests are presented in order to compare the effectiveness of the different approaches. Mini-tunnel and hot plate test results are featured.
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