Preparation and Characterization of Rigid Polyurethane Foams with Different Loadings of Lignin-Derived Polycarboxylic Acids

Lignin was modified by oxidation to prepare lignin-derived polycarboxylic acids (LPCAs). LPCAs can be introduced into rigid polyurethane foams (RPUFs) via 1,4-dioxane. The expansion ratio and compressive strength of RPUFs were observed. When the loading of LPCAs was 0.67wt% (based on polyol), the compressive strength of RPUF was the highest and was about 59.2% higher than that of the blank RPUF. The reinforcing mechanism of LPCAs was supposed that the interactions between LPCAs and RPUFs increased the strength of the cell walls. When the loading of LPCAs was less than 0.33wt%, the expansion ratio of RPUFs increased slightly. The water resistance of RPUFs was not affected by LPCAs, suggesting that RPUFs with LPCAs could be used in a humid environment. Besides, the application of the oxidative modification products of lignin was broadened.