Open-cell polyurethane foams based on modified used cooking oil

The present paper reports an innovative, sustainable approach in accordance with the rules of Circular Economy in the synthesis of open-cell polyurethane foams. The materials were prepared with biopolyols from a used cooking oil. The hydroxyl values of the biopolyols were ca. 100, 200 and 250 mg KOH/g. In the next step, the three polyurethane biofoams were modified with a flame retardant in order to decrease their flammability. The influence of the hydroxyl values of the biopolyols on the reactivity of the systems, cellular structures, mechanical and thermal properties of the biofoams was investigated. The most beneficial properties were obtained for open-cell polyurethane foams prepared using biopolyol characterized by hydroxyl value 200 mg KOH/g.