[nanoPost] Polymer Foams Containing Multi-Functional Layered Nano-Graphite

Company USA

Rigid foamed plastic boards are extensively used as thermal insulating materials for many applications. The paper describes thermal insulation, mechanical, gas barrier, and surface properties of extruded polystyrene (XPS) foams containing nano-graphite. The use of nano-graphite improves thermal insulation of the foam by attenuating infrared radiation and also increases the compressive strength of the foam. Nano-graphite in a foam product also acts as a UV stabilizer and as a gas barrier in the final product.

During foaming, nano-graphite acts as a nucleating agent, modifies the rheology of blowing agent laden polystyrene melt, and reduces the amount of static on the board surface during the shaping process. The paper also discusses some process challenges associated with the manufacture of nano-graphite containing XPS foam.