Foaming regulator is a commonly used chemical additive, which plays a vital role in many industrial applications, especially in the manufacture of foam plastics and other materials containing bubbles. The following are the main mechanisms of action of foaming regulators:
Reduce the surface tension of liquids
Foam regulators are usually surfactants that can significantly reduce the surface tension of liquids. This property makes it easier for liquids to form stable bubbles. When foaming regulators are added to a liquid, they form a thin film on the surface of the liquid that prevents air molecules from entering the interior of the liquid. When the liquid is stirred or shaken by external force, the air will be trapped in the liquid, forming foam 1.
Generate gas
Some types of foaming regulators, especially chemical foaming agents, produce gases through chemical reactions. These gases form bubbles in the liquid, which in turn produce foam. The use of chemical foaming agent needs precise control, because excessive gas may cause foam instability or breaking4.
Physical foaming
In addition, some foaming regulators introduce gas into the liquid through physical methods, such as stirring or high-speed shearing, to form foam. This method usually requires special equipment and techniques to ensure that the gas can be evenly distributed in the liquid.
Improve cell structure and foam density
In the production of polymer foam materials, foaming regulators can significantly improve the cell structure and foam density. By adjusting the type and amount of foaming regulator, the expansion degree and cell structure of foam of polymer can be accurately controlled, so as to achieve the required specific performance. For example, meta polyanhydride can adjust the structure and cell size of low-density foam, while phenolic resin can control the expansion of polymer and foam structure2.
Improve melt strength and flowability
One of the purposes of adding ultra-high molecular weight polymers to PVC foam products is to improve the melt strength of PVC foam materials, prevent the merging of bubbles, and obtain uniformly foamed products. At the same time, this also ensures that the melt has good fluidity to obtain products with good appearance.
conclusion
Foaming regulators work through a variety of mechanisms, including reducing liquid surface tension, generating gas, physical agitation, and improving cell structure and foam density. These mechanisms work together to make foaming regulators play an indispensable role in the production of various fields, such as food, cosmetics, daily chemicals and polymer foam materials. However, when using foaming regulators, attention should also be paid to their environmental impact, safety, and cost in order to achieve sustainable development.
Post time: Dec-30-2024
