ProfHolod’s R&D Centre specialists attended a three-day workshop by the German concern Evonik in Essen which was dedicated to the specificities of PIR-system formulations.
The workshop was developed specifically for the needs of ProfHolod’s R&D Centre. The main subject of discussion was the special aspects of polyisocyanurate system formulations, catalysis processes and specific rules for their use as co-blowing agents of carboxylic acids.
The use of carboxylic acids in the formulation of rigid foamed PUR is one of the global trends of PU system development. The ingredient enhances the foam performance specification: its physical and mechanical properties and thermal conductivity through the formation of finer foam cells.
Also, the workshop touched upon some other matters:
- features of surface-active agents (surfactants) and their role in PIR formulation,
- effect of surfactants on the technological process quality and the quality of products,
- catalysis of amine- and metal-based organic catalysts which impact the process and PIR properties in general.
ProfHolod has been collaborating with the German concern Evonik since 2016. Summarizing the results of the workshop, the parties have agreed to conduct a whole series of training events at the Evonik’s headquarters, at the department responsible for rigid foams.
Illya Evdokimov, Head of ProfHolod’s R&D Centre: “During the workshop we had a detailed dive into mechanisms of emulsification, nucleation, cell formation, stabilization, and foam hardening. We have learned lots of things, added them to our bundle of knowledge. We’ve got the knowledge firsthand, from world top consortium specialists, which shares the expertise with all the companies working with PU around the globe.”
Semen Gusev, Division Manager for PU Foam System Formulation and Polyester Synthesis of ProfHolod’s R&D Centre: “For us it was important to enhance our knowledge base on the interrelation between the laboratory-based and production test results. Particularly for such components as the catalysis and functions of surfactants. We obtained a full-fledged theoretical base from the experts of the leading and largest company which develops and sells of additives for all chemical industry areas. Eventually, we have revised some parts of our PIR-system formulation concept and will continue improving our product.”
Since 2016, ProfHolod has been manufacturing sandwich panels using its own PIR Premier system, while selecting an optimum combination of the best chemical components from all over the world. ProfHolod’s PIR Premier system-based sandwich panels exhibit more than 185 kPa strength in tests for 10% deformation and more than 160 kPa tensile strength at a density of 40 kg/m3 in compliance with the European standard EN14509.
ProfHolod is Russia’s largest manufacturer of sandwich panels with an innovative PU thermal insulation.
Evonik is the world’s largest company in the field of special chemistry; in 2010 its turnover amounted to EUR 13,9 billion.
