In this project, I developed safer, non-isocyanate polyurethane foams (NIPUs), addressing the health risks of traditional polyurethane, which is synthesized from toxic isocyanates. My approach replaced hazardous materials with less toxic alternatives, such as Bismuth Triflate instead of tin octoate catalysts.
Innovations:
Polyhydroxy Thioether Foam: Created by reacting commercial epoxy with CO2 and thiolated monomers, eliminating the need for toxic isocyanates and incorporating CO2 capture.
Isocyanate-Free Polyurethane Foam: Formed through aminolysis with diamines, this method avoids toxic reactants and fosters safer production environments.
These advancements contribute to safer industrial materials and align with sustainable manufacturing practices.