Foaming as a method for creating of high-performance polymer materials
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15407/hftp17.02.249Keywords:
polymeric foams, foamed polymers, blowing agent, foam formation, azodicarbonamide, heat-resistant foamsAbstract
Polymer foams represent a class of two-phase materials consisting of a solid and a gas phase. Their architecture enables a unique combination of low density, reduced thermal conductivity, high energy absorption and an optimal strength-to-weight ratio. These properties make them indispensable in a wide range of industries, including construction, healthcare, transportation, automotive and aerospace. Depending on the chemical nature of the polymer matrix and the foaming method used, such materials can exhibit a wide range of characteristics, allowing their adaptation to specific functional requirements.
The present review provides a comprehensive and systematic overview of polymer foams obtained by chemical and physical foaming methods, as well as self-foaming systems. Particular attention is paid to the synthesis strategies, the types of foaming agents used, and the main mechanisms of gas generation. Physical foaming agents (e.g., inert gases and volatile liquids) are introduced as a separate phase that expands upon heating or pressure reduction. Chemical foaming agents (e.g., azodicarbonamide) release gas via thermal decomposition during the formation of the polymer matrix. In self-foaming systems, the gas (e.g., CO?) is generated in situ through chemical reactions between functional groups in the reaction mixture, thus combining matrix formation and pore generation in a single process.
Furthermore, the review discusses the influence of processing parameters, blend compositions, and foaming conditions on the final foam morphology and performance characteristics, including mechanical strength, thermal stability, and insulation efficiency. Particular emphasis is placed on recent advances in the development of heat-resistant high performance polymer foams based on thermosetting resins such as epoxies, polybenzoxazines, and polycyanurates, as well as their hybrid formulations. The potential of these materials as multifunctional, adaptable platforms for advanced engineering applications is also highlighted.
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