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dr inż. Paulina Kosmela
Employment
- Assistant professor at Department of Polymers Technology
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total: 84
Catalog Publications
Year 2014
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Możliwości recyklingu materiałów poliuretanowych
PublicationW artykule przedstawiono przegląd literatury dotyczący możliwości ponownego wykorzystania materiałów poliuretanowych. Składowanie odpadów poliuretanowych, w szczególności pianek jest kłopotliwe, ponieważ mają one małą gęstość pozorną i zajmują dużą objętość. Z perspektywy ochrony środowiska poliuretany stanowią uciążliwy odpad, ponieważ nie ulegają biodegradacji. Recykling materiałów poliuretanowych stanowi zatem ważne zagadnienie...
Year 2015
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Ekologiczne pianki poliuretanowe otrzymane z surowców odnawianych
PublicationPrzedmiotem pracy była charakterystyka ekologicznych, sztywnych pianek poliuretanowych otrzymanych z biopoliolu uzyskanego w wyniku upłynniania biomasy celulozowej frakcją glicerynową. Sztywne pianki otrzymano metodą jednoetapową z układu dwukomponentowego przy stosunku grup NCO do OH wynoszącym 2:1. Udział biopoliolu w stosunku do zawartości komercyjnego poliolu wynosił odpowiednio 25, 50, 75 oraz 100 % mas. Otrzymane układy scharakteryzowano...
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Kontrola jakości materiałów polimerowych wytwarzanych metodą wytłaczania: stan obecny i perspektywy rozwoju
PublicationNiniejsza praca stanowi przegląd literaturowy metod kontroli jakości materiałów polimerowych wytwarzanych metodą wytłaczania. Scharakteryzowano możliwości kontroli efektywności procesu wytłaczania działających w układach "on-line" oraz "in-line", które polegają na przeprowadzeniu pomiarów w czasie trwania procesu. Opisano potencjał aplikacyjny technik spektroskopowych (IR, UV-VIS), pomiarów właściwości reologicznych, analizy morfologii...
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Morphology and the physical and thermal properties of thermoplastic polyurethane reinforced with thermally reduced graphene oxide
PublicationIn this study, thermally reduced graphene oxide (TRG)-containing polyurethane nanocomposites were obtained by the extrusion method. The content of TRG incorporated into polyurethane elastomer systems equaled 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 and 3.0 wt%. The morphology, static and dynamic mechanical properties, and thermal stability of the modified materials were investigated. The application of TRG resulted in a visible increase in material stiffness...
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Otrzymywanie spienionych materiałów poliuretanowych z wykorzystaniem biomasy celulozowej
PublicationW niniejszej pracy przedstawiono sposób otrzymywania oraz charakterystykę sztywnych pianek poliuretanowych (SPUR) otrzymanych z biopoliolu uzyskanego w wyniku upłynniania biomasy celulozowej frakcją glicerynową. Opisano również sposób otrzymywania biopoliolu (EP1) jego charakterystykę oraz podstawowe właściwości fizyko-chemiczne. EP1 otrzymano przez upłynnienie biomasy celulozowej w surowej glicerynie wykorzystując H2SO4 jako...
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Piroliza pianki poliuretanowej - analiza gazowych produktów rozkładu
PublicationPoliuretan jest syntetycznym polimerem o szerokim zastosowaniu, między innymi jest jednym z częściej stosowanych tworzyw sztucz-nych w przemyśle motoryzacyjnym. Jego produkcja stanowi około 5,6% udziału w rynku tworzyw sztucznych. Ze względu na niespecy-ficzność termicznego rozrywania wiązań, poliuretan nie może być depolimeryzowany w procesach termochemicznych. Pod postacią pianki o małej gęstości, stanowi on dość znaczący strumień...
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Study of the effect of thermally reduced graphene oxide on the physical and mechanical properties of flexible polyurethane foams
PublicationFlexible polyurethane foams were obtained from a two-component system via the one-step method. The foams were modified with thermally reduced graphene oxide added in the amount equal to 0.25, 0.5 and 0.75 wt%. The morphology, static and dynamic properties, and thermal stability of modified foams were determined. The application of carbon filler resulted in the visible increase in the cell size, apparent density and rigidity of...
Year 2016
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A recent developments in polyurethane foams containing a low-cost and pro-ecological modifiers
PublicationDiversity of the polyurethane (PU) foams applications cause that investigation of the relationships between their structure and properties is currently very popular topic among the many research institutions and companies. At the turn of the last years many scientific papers about PU foams and their composites were published. The one of the main research trends in this field is related to the reduction of production costs of...
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Biopolyols obtained via crude glycerol-based liquefaction of cellulose: their structural, rheological and thermal characterization
PublicationIn this work lignocellulose biomass liquefaction was used to produce biopolyols suitable for the manufacturing of rigid polyurethane foams. In order to better evaluate the mechanism of the process, pure cellulose was applied as a raw material. The effect of time and temperature on the effectiveness of liquefaction and the parameters of resulting biopolyols were characterized. The prepared materials were analyzed in terms of their...
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Foamed Polyurethane Composites With Different Types of Ash – Morphological, Mechanical and Thermal Behavior Assessments
Publicationncorporation of two types of ash particles into flexible polyurethane foams has been investigated, wood ash from gasification process and fly ash resulting from coal burning in power plant. Samples were modified with 5, 10 and 15 wt% of fillers. Structure, mechanical and thermal properties of obtained foams were investigated. Incorporation of both types of ash particles resulted in materials showing...
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Microwave Assisted Liquefaction with Crude Glycerol as a Potential Method of Brewer’s Spent Grain Utilization
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Microwave assisted liquefaction with crude glycerol as a potential method of brewer's spent grain utylization
PublicationBrewer's spent grain was applied as a low-cost industrial type of lignocellulose biomass in a liquefaction and solvent: biomass ratio on the efficiency of the process, chemical structure and basic properties of obtained prepared polyols and soil residues shed light on the biomass degradation mechanism through application of microwaves and further reaction of degradation products with solvent particles.
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Modification of microporous polyurethane elastomers with different types of ash—morphological, mechanical, and thermal studies
PublicationIncorporation of wood ash particles from wood gasification into microporous polyurethane elastomers has been investigated and compared to addition of commercially available microspheres resulting from coal burning. Samples were modified with 3 and 6 wt% of fillers. Structure, mechanical, and thermal properties of obtained elastomers were investigated. Incorporation of both types of ash particles decreased the density of polyurethanes...
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Morfologia, właściwości mechaniczne oraz palność spienionych materiałów poliuretanowo-poliglicerynowych modyfikowanych grafitem ekspandowanym
PublicationSpienione kompozyty poliuretanowo-glicerynowe modyfikowane grafitem ekspandowanymotrzymano metodą jednostopniową z układu dwukomponentowego, gdzie jako składnik poliolowyzastosowano odpadową poliglicerynę. Scharakteryzowano morfologię, właściwościmechaniczne oraz klasę palności otrzymanych materiałów. Uzyskane wyniki wskazują, żewprowadzenie poligliceryny do matrycy poliuretanowej umożliwia otrzymanie materiałówcharakteryzujących...
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Potential applications of crude glycerol in polymer technology–Current state and perspectives
PublicationThe increasing use of bio-based fuels and fuel additives, among them biodiesel, causes significant surplus of crude glycerol on the market which creates new challenges in terms of its sustainable utilization. A lot of ways for the incorporation of this by-product into different branches of industry requires purification by expensive and complicated processes. Therefore, researchers are seeking for applications of untreated crude...
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RECENT DEVELOPMENTS IN POLYURETHANE FOAMS CONTAINING LOW-COST AND PRO-ECOLOGICAL MODIFIERS
Publication
Year 2017
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Elastic polyurethane foams containing graphene nanoplatelets
PublicationElastic polyurethane foams were produced from two-component polyurethane systems (SPECFLEX NE 113 izocyjanian/NR 816 poliol system—SPC and Elastic MBMarket company system POLYOL ET MB 500/ISO ET MB 800—ET) by using a one-step method. The foams were a graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) in the amount ranging from 1 to 2 wt.%. The effect of the nanofiller on polyurethane matrix was determined by analyzing the chemical structure, static...
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Liquefaction of macroalgae Enteromorpha biomass for the preparation of biopolyols by using crude glycerol
PublicationThis article describes the liquefaction process of macroalgae Enteromorpha with the use of crude glycerol as a solvent and a reagent, aimed at obtaining of new bio-polyols, which are characterized with respect to their chemical structure, physical and thermal properties. Six different biopolyols were prepared. In order to optimize the liquefaction of algal biomass for the best bio-polyol properties, two catalysts (sulfuric or orthophosphoric...
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Termooksydacyjna i fotooksydacyjna degradacja pianek poliuretanowych
PublicationPrzeprowadzono ocenę efektywności działania wybranych środków przeciwstarzeniowych w sztywnych piankach poliuretanowych, otrzymywanych na drodze syntezy jednoetapowej. Ocenę tę oparto na pomia-rach zmian barwy oraz wytrzymałości mechanicznej zsyntezowanych materiałów. Na podstawie analizy uzyskanych wyników stwierdzono, iż dodatek 3% mieszaniny I rzędowego antyutleniacza fenolowego oraz benzotriazolowego absorbera UV znacząco zmniejsza...
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The influence of crude glycerol and castor oil-based polyol on the structure and performance of rigid polyurethane-polyisocyanurate foams
PublicationIn this work, biopolyol obtained from two types of industrial crops’ processing products: crude glycerol and castor oil was used for preparation or rigid polyurethane-polyisocyanurate foams. Bio-based polyol was obtained via crude glycerol polymerization and further condensation of resulting polyglycerol with castor oil. Rigid polyurethane-polyisocyanurate foams were prepared at partial substitution (0–70 wt.%) of petrochemical...
Year 2018
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Biopolyols obtained via microwave-assisted liquefaction of lignin: structure, rheological, physical and thermal properties
PublicationThe present study examined the application of polyols obtained via microwave-assisted liquefaction of lignin in the production of rigid polyurethane foam. Lignin was liquefed in crude glycerol and 1,4-butanediol at diferent temperatures (130–170 °C), without a catalyst and using various biomass concentrations (15 and 30 wt%). The physicochemical properties, process yield, and FTIR-based identifcation of the obtained polyols were...
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Produkty poliolowe otrzymane przez proces upłynniania biomasy z Morza Bałtyckiego
PublicationNiniejsza praca pt. „Produkty poliolowe otrzymywane poprzez proces upłynniania biomasy z Morza Bałtyckiego”, składa się z dwóch części, teoretycznej oraz eksperymentalnej. W części pierwszej przedstawiono aktualne kierunki badań dotyczące stosowania surowców odnawialnych w produkcji poliuretanów. Omówiono zastosowanie olejów roślinnych, odpadowej gliceryny oraz biomasy do otrzymywania spienionych materiałów poliuretanowych. Przedstawiono...
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Rheological properties, oxidative and thermal stability, and potential application of biopolyols prepared via two-step process from crude glycerol
PublicationIn this work, previously synthesized biopolyols were analyzed in terms of their rheological and thermal properties, very important from the technological point of view. For better evaluation of performed synthesis, the influence of its time and temperature on the properties of biopolyols was determined. In the end, obtained materials were used to prepare rigid polyurethane-polyisocyanurate (PUR-PIR) foams, to evaluate their potential...
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Structure, Mechanical, Thermal and Fire Behavior Assessments of Environmentally Friendly Crude Glycerol-Based Rigid Polyisocyanurate Foams
PublicationIn this work, rigid polyisocyanurate foams were prepared at partial substitution (0–70 wt%) of commercially available petrochemical polyol, with previously synthesized biopolyol based on crude glycerol and castor oil. Influence of the biopolyol content on morphology, chemical structure, static and dynamic mechanical properties, thermal insulation properties, thermal stability and flammability was investigated. Incorporation of...
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The study on application of biopolyols obtained by cellulose biomass liquefaction performed with crude glycerol for the synthesis of rigid polyurethane foams
PublicationIn this work rigid polyurethane foams (PUR) were obtained by replacement of 0–70 wt% of petrochemical polyol with bio-polyol obtained via cellulose liquefaction in presence of crude glycerol. The foams with different content of a bio-polyol were prepared by single step method for NCO/OH ratio equals 1.5. The prepared materials were analyzed in terms of their morphology, chemical structure, thermal stability and basic physical and...
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Two-step Conversion of Crude Glycerol Generated by Biodiesel Production into Biopolyols: Synthesis, Structural and Physical Chemical Characterization
PublicationIn this work biopolyols were synthesized via two-step process from crude glycerol and castor oil. For better evaluation of analyzed process, the impact of its time and temperature on the structure and properties of biopolyols was determined. Obtained results fully justified conducting of synthesis in two steps. Prepared materials were characterized by hydroxyl value and water content comparable to polyols industrially applied in...
Year 2019
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Chemical structures, rheological and physical properties of biopolyols prepared via solvothermal liquefaction of Enteromorpha and Zostera marina biomass
PublicationIn this work, liquefied biomass from the Baltic Sea was used for the preparation of rigid polyurethane (PUR) foams. The biomass contained 10 wt% of Enteromorpha macroalgae and 90 wt% of Zostera marina seagrass characterized by a high content of cellulose. The influence of time, temperature and the type of solvent on the efficiency of the liquefaction process and properties of biopolyols was determined. Obtained materials were analyzed...
Year 2020
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A comprehensive evaluation of flexible FDM/FFF 3D printing filament as a potential material in medical application
PublicationThe use of FDM/FFF in 3D printing for medical sciences is becoming common. This is due to the high availability and decent price of both 3D printers and filaments useful for FDM/FFF. Currently, researchers' attention is focused mainly on the study of medical filaments based on PLA, PCL or their modifications. This contributes to insufficient diversity of medical-grade filaments on the market. Moreover, due to the lack of specified...
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Bio-Based Polyurethane Composites and Hybrid Composites Containing a New Type of Bio-Polyol and Addition of Natural and Synthetic Fibers
PublicationThis article describes how new bio-based polyol during the liquefaction process can be obtained. Selected polyol was tested in the production of polyurethane resins. Moreover, this research describes the process of manufacturing polyurethane materials and the impact of two different types of fibers—synthetic and natural (glass and sisal fibers)—on the properties of composites. The best properties were achieved at a reaction temperature...
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DETERMINATION OF THE HYDROXYL NUMBER OF GROUND TIRE RUBBER PARTICLES VIA MODIFIED TEST METHOD FOR ISOCYANATE GROUPS
PublicationNowadays, considering the environmental trends and law regulations associated with the circular economy, it is very important to seek for the methods of by-products and waste utilization. The example of such material, which requires the attention and recycling method is ground tire rubber generated during recycling of post-consumer car tires. It can be introduced into various polymer matrices as a filler, but to enhance its effectivity...
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Insights into Compatibilization of Poly(ε-caprolactone)-based Biocomposites with Diisocyanates as Modifiers of Cellulose Fillers
PublicationThis study aimed to analyze the impact of cellulose fillers’ modification with diisocyanates on the performance of composites based on the poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) matrix. Four most commonly used diisocyantes (isophorone, hexamethylene, toluene, and methylene diphenyl) were applied as modifiers of cellulose fillers (5 and 15 wt% per mass of filler). Modified fillers were introduced in the amount of 30 wt% into the PCL matrix....
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Mechanical, Thermal and Rheological Properties of Polyethylene-Based Composites Filled with Micrometric Aluminum Powder
PublicationInvestigations related to polymer/metal composites are often limited to the analysis of the electrical and thermal conductivity of the materials. The presented study aims to analyze the impact of aluminum (Al) filler content (from 1 to 20 wt%) on the rarely investigated properties of composites based on the high-density polyethylene (HDPE) matrix. The crystalline structure, rheological (melt flow index and oscillatory rheometry),...
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Microstructure–Property Relationship of Polyurethane Foams Modified with Baltic Sea Biomass: Microcomputed Tomography vs. Scanning Electron Microscopy
PublicationIn this paper, novel rigid polyurethane foams modified with Baltic Sea biomass were compared with traditional petro-based polyurethane foam as reference sample. A special attention was focused on complex studies of microstructure, which was visualized and measured in 3D with high-resolution microcomputed tomography (microCT) and, as commonly applied for this purpose, scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The impact of pore volume,...
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Processing of Polyester-Urethane Filament and Characterization of FFF 3D Printed Elastic Porous Structures with Potential in Cancellous Bone Tissue Engineering
PublicationThis paper addresses the potential of self-made polyester-urethane filament as a candidate for Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF)-based 3D printing (3DP) in medical applications. Since the industry does not provide many ready-made solutions of medical-grade polyurethane filaments, we undertook research aimed at presenting the process of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) filament formation, detailed characteristics, and 3DP of specially...
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Recent advances in compatibilization strategies of wood-polymer composites by isocyanates
PublicationWood-polymer composites technologies are gaining more and more attention in the scientific community, positively affecting the increase in their industrial applications, for example, automotive, building, 3D printing, etc. Many research works are focused on the improvement in matrix–lignocellulosic filler interactions to produce highly filled composites with satisfying performance properties. In this field of research, using isocyanates...
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Rotational Molding of Linear Low-Density Polyethylene Composites Filled with Wheat Bran
PublicationApplication of lignocellulosic fillers in the manufacturing of wood polymer composites (WPCs) is a very popular trend of research, however it is still rarely observed in the case of rotational molding. The present study aimed to analyze the impact of wheat bran content (from 2.5 wt.% to 20 wt.%) on the performance of rotationally-molded composites based on a linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) matrix. Microscopic structure...
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Static and Dynamic Mechanical Properties of 3D Printed ABS as a Function of Raster Angle
PublicationDue to the rapid growth of 3D printing popularity, including fused deposition modeling (FDM), as one of the most common technologies, the proper understanding of the process and influence of its parameters on resulting products is crucial for its development. One of the most crucial parameters of FDM printing is the raster angle and mutual arrangement of the following filament layers. Presented research work aims to evaluate different...
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Study on the Structure-Property Dependences of Rigid PUR-PIR Foams Obtained from Marine Biomass-Based Biopolyol
PublicationThe paper describes the preparation and characterization of rigid polyurethane-polyisocyanurate (PUR-PIR) foams obtained with biopolyol synthesized in the process of liquefaction of biomass from the Baltic Sea. The obtained foams differed in the content of biopolyol in polyol mixture (0–30 wt%) and the isocyanate index (IISO = 200, 250, and 300). The prepared foams were characterized in terms of processing parameters (processing...
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THE IMPACT OF GROUND TIRE RUBBER TREATMENT ON THE THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY OF FLEXIBLE POLYURETHANE/GROUND TIRE RUBBER COMPOSITES
PublicationWaste car tires are burdensome waste, and their utilization is crucial for the natural environment. In many countries, the primary method of their recycling is energy recovery, performed by simple combustion. However, material recycling is much more effective and significantly more beneficial for the natural environment. It results in the generation of ground tire rubber, which can be used to produce polymerrubber composites. It...
Year 2021
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By-Products from Food Industry as a Promising Alternative for the Conventional Fillers for Wood–Polymer Composites
PublicationThe present paper describes the application of two types of food-industry by-products, brewers’ spent grain (BSG), and coffee silverskin (ŁK) as promising alternatives for the conventional beech wood flour (WF) for wood–polymer composites. The main goal was to investigate the impact of partial and complete WF substitution by BSG and ŁK on the processing, structure, physicochemical, mechanical, and thermal properties of resulting...
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Characterization of Highly Filled Glass Fiber/Carbon Fiber Polyurethane Composites with the Addition of Bio-Polyol Obtained through Biomass Liquefaction
PublicationThis work aims to investigate the process of obtaining highly filled glass and carbon fiber composites. Composites were manufactured using previously obtained cellulose derived polyol, polymeric methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (pMDI). As a catalyst, dibutyltin dilaurate 95% and Dabco® 33-LV were used. It was found that the addition of carbon and glass fibers into the polymer matrix causes an increase in the mechanical properties...
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Coffee Silverskin as a Multifunctional Waste Filler for High-Density Polyethylene Green Composites
PublicationThis work aims to describe the coffee silverskin effect as a lignocellulosic waste filler for high-density polyethylene (HDPE) composites development. The main task was to determine various modification effects resulting from the complex chemical composition of coffee silverskin containing compounds with potential antioxidative properties, including caffeine, polyphenols, tannins, or melanoidins. The processing, thermal, physicochemical,...
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Copper Slag as a Potential Waste Filler for Polyethylene-Based Composites Manufacturing
PublicationThe present study aimed to analyze the application of waste material from copper production– copper slag (ŻŻL) as filler for composites based on the high-density polyethylene (HDPE). Copper slag filler was introduced in the amounts of 1–20 wt%, and its influence on the appearance (color analysis), chemical structure (Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy), microstructure (optical microscopy), as well as static (tensile...
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Enhancement of PUR/PIR foam thermal stability after addition of Zostera marina biomass component investigated via thermal analysis and isoconversional kinetics
PublicationIn the present work, a thorough thermogravimetric (TG) analysis of bio-based polyurethane–polyisocyanurate (PUR–PIR) foams in both nitrogen and oxygen atmosphere is performed. A sustainable element of the foam is a biopolyol obtained via acid-catalyzed liquefaction of Zostera marina and Enteromorpha Algae biomass. Based on isoconversional analysis and apparent activation energies, several conclusions are obtained. In contradiction...
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Ground Tire Rubber Filled Flexible Polyurethane Foam—Effect of Waste Rubber Treatment on Composite Performance
PublicationThe application range of flexible polyurethane (PU) foams is comprehensive because of their versatility and flexibility in adjusting structure and performance. In addition to the investigations associated with further broadening of their potential properties, researchers are looking for new raw materials, beneficially originated from renewable resources or recycling. A great example of such a material is ground tire rubber (GTR)—the...
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Inhibition of Polymer Photodegradation by Incorporation of Coffee Silverskin
PublicationOver the last years, the trend associated with the incorporation of materials from renewable resources into polymer technology is getting significantly more vital. Researchers are trying to transfer the properties of natural raw materials into the polymer world. Therefore, different natural materials are more often investigated as potential additives for polymers. Such an effect is noted for the coffee industry by-products, such...
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MANDARIN PEEL AS AN AUSPICIOUS FUNCTIONAL FILLER FOR POLYMER COMPOSITES
PublicationThis work describes the application of mandarin peel (MP) as a waste filler for high-density polyethylene (HDPE) composites. The main goal was to investigate the impact of the filler's essential oils, which include multiple terpenes and terpenoids, on the processing, physicochemical, mechanical, and thermal properties of the composites as a function of different filler content (1 – 10 wt%), as well as its effect on the color and...
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OIL-ASSISTED THERMO-MECHANICAL RECLAMATION OF GROUND TIRE RUBBER
PublicationNowadays, it is crucial to seek for the methods of by-products and waste utilization, considering both environmental and economic factors. The example of waste material generated in the massive amounts, which requires the attention is ground tire rubber generated during recycling of post-consumer car tires. It can be applied as a filler into different polymer matrices, but to enhance its effectivity proper modifications should...
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Polyurethanes for Coating, Adhesives, and Other Applications
PublicationAn interesting group of polyurethane (PU) materials are coatings, adhesives, sealants, and thickeners. A wide base of raw materials and various methods of PU synthesis allows production of materials with a wide range of properties that can be commonly used in many industries. This chapter describes the main types of PU coatings and adhesives and special application PUs and the methods of their production. The materials described...
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Recycling of Waste Rubber by the Manufacturing of Foamed Polyurethane-Based Composites—Current State and Perspectives
PublicationWorn car tires are disruptive waste, and the issue of their management is crucial for the natural environment. In many countries, the primary method of end-of-life tires utilization is energy recovery. However, more effective and beneficial for the environment is material recycling. Using them for the production of polymer-rubber composites seems to be an auspicious direction of research. Incorporation of ground tire rubber into...
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Recycling of Waste Rubber by Thermo-Mechanical Treatment in a Twin-Screw Extruder
PublicationRecycling of waste tires is a significant issue considering both environmental and economic aspects. One of the leading recycling routes is the shredding of tires resulting in the generation of ground tire rubber. This material can be easily introduced into various polymer matrices as a filler, reducing the use of conventionally applied petroleum-based materials. In such cases, it is essential to ensure sufficient interfacial compatibility,...
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Structural Changes and Their Implications in Foamed Flexible Polyurethane Composites Filled with Rapeseed Oil-Treated Ground Tire Rubber
PublicationThe utilization of post-consumer car tires is an essential issue from an ecological andeconomic point of view. One of the simplest and the least harmful methods is their material recyclingresulting in ground tire rubber (GTR), which can be further applied as fillers for polymer-basedcomposites. Nevertheless, insufficient interfacial interactions implicate the necessity of GTR modi-fication before introduction into polymer matrices....
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The Impact of Ground Tire Rubber Oxidation with H2O2 and KMnO4 on the Structure and Performance of Flexible Polyurethane/Ground Tire Rubber Composite Foams
PublicationThe use of waste tires is a very critical issue, considering their environmental and economic implications. One of the simplest and the least harmful methods is conversion of tires into ground tire rubber (GTR), which can be introduced into different polymer matrices as a filler. However, these applications often require proper modifications to provide compatibility with the polymer matrix. In this study, we examined the impact...
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THERMOMECHANICAL PERFORMANCE OF FLEXIBLE POLYURETHANE FOAMS AS A FUNCTION OF THE ISOCYANATE INDEX
PublicationPolyurethane foams are very versatile materials applied in different branches of industry. Their popularity is attributed, among others, to the flexibility in engineering their mechanical performance by the adjustment of their formulations. One of the most crucial factors is the isocyanate index, determining the ratio between the free hydroxyl and isocyanate groups present in the polyurethane system. By the change of this ratio,...
Year 2022
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Comprehensive Enhancement of Prepolymer-Based Flexible Polyurethane Foams’ Performance by Introduction of Cost-Effective Waste-Based Ground Tire Rubber Particles
PublicationMaterial innovations in polyurethane (PU) foams should ideally combine performance enhancement, environmental impact limitation, and cost reduction. These goals can be achieved by applying recycled or waste-based materials without broader industrial applications, implicating their low price. Herein, from 5 to 20 parts by weight of ground tire rubber (GTR) particles originated from the recycling of postconsumer car tires were incorporated...
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Comprehensive Investigation of Stoichiometry–Structure–Performance Relationships in Flexible Polyurethane Foams
PublicationPolyurethane (PU) foams are versatile materials with a broad application range. Their performance is driven by the stoichiometry of polymerization reaction, which has been investigated in several works. However, the analysis was often limited only to selected properties and compared samples differing in apparent density, significantly influencing their performance. In the bigger picture, there is still a lack of comprehensive studies...
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Emission Profiles of Volatiles during 3D Printing with ABS, ASA, Nylon, and PETG Polymer Filaments
PublicationIn this short communication we characterize the emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from fused filament fabrication (FFF) 3D printing using four polymer materials, namely polyethylene terephthalate glycol-modified (PETG), acrylonitrile styrene acrylate (ASA), Nylon, and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). Detailed emission profiles are obtained during thermal degradation of the polymers as a function of temperature...
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High-density Polyethylene - Expanded Perlite Composites: Structural Oriented Analysis of Mechanical and Thermomechanical Properties
PublicationAs part of this work, research was carried out on the effect of the addition of expanded perlite (PR) on the mechanical and thermomechanical properties of high-density polyethylene (PE) composites. Composites containing from 1 to 10 wt% of the inorganic filler were produced. Polyethylene-based composites manufactured by twin-screw extrusion and formed in the compression molding process were subjected to mechanical, thermomechanical,...
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Insights into Stoichiometry Adjustments Governing the Performance of Flexible Foamed Polyurethane/Ground Tire Rubber Composites
PublicationPolyurethanes (PU) are widely applied in the industry due to their tunable performance adjusted by changes in the isocyanate index—stoichiometric balance between isocyanate and hydroxyl groups. This balance is affected by the incorporation of modifiers of fillers into the PU matrix and is especially crucial for PU foams due to the additional role of isocyanates—foaming of the material. Despite the awareness of the issue underlined...
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Mater-Bi/Brewers’ Spent Grain Biocomposites—Novel Approach to Plant-Based Waste Filler Treatment by Highly Efficient Thermomechanical and Chemical Methods
PublicationThermoplastic starch (TPS) is a homogenous material prepared from native starch and water or other plasticizers subjected to mixing at a temperature exceeding starch gelatinization temperature. It shows major drawbacks like high moisture sensitivity, poor mechanical properties, and thermal stability. To overcome these drawbacks without significant cost increase, TPS could be blended with bio-based or biodegradable polymers and...
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Synthesis and characterization of biopolyols through biomass liquefaction of wood shavings and their application in the preparation of polyurethane wood composites
PublicationThe sustainability of production systems in wood processing, wood industry, and wooden waste disposal is an important issue for European industry and society. Proper development of products based on renewable wood resources gives an opportunity to provide materials with long-term environmental, social, and economic sustainability. This study aims to establish a new way of forestry and agricultural waste materials utilization by...
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The Impact of Isocyanate Index and Filler Functionalities on the Performance of Flexible Foamed Polyurethane/Ground Tire Rubber Composites
PublicationThe structure and performance of polyurethane (PU) foams are strongly driven by the stoichiometry of the polyaddition reaction, quantitatively described by the isocyanate index. It determines the balance between isocyanate and hydroxyl groups in the reacting system and is affected by the introduction of additional functionalities originated, e.g., from applied fillers. Nevertheless, this issue is hardly taken into account in research...
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The impact of thermomechanical and chemical treatment of waste Brewers’ spent grain and soil biodegradation of sustainable Mater-Bi-Based biocomposites
PublicationDue to the massive plastic pollution, development of sustainable and biodegradable polymer materials is crucial to reduce environmental burdens and support climate neutrality. Application of lignocellulosic wastes as fillers for polymer composites was broadly reported, but analysis of biodegradation behavior of resulting biocomposites was rarely examined. Herein, sustainable Mater-Bi-based biocomposites filled with thermomechanically-...
Year 2023
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A novel approach in wood waste utilization for manufacturing of catalyst-free polyurethane-wood composites (PU-WC)
PublicationIn recent decades, due to the increase in environmental awareness and noticeable environmental degradation, the area of wood waste management has attracted increasing attention. The purpose of this study is to develop a new type of highly filled polyurethane wood-composite (PU-WC) by the utilization of large amount of wood wastes without addition of a catalyst. Although wood-plastic composites (WPCs) are widely known, there is...
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Bio‐polyols synthesized by liquefaction of cellulose: Influence of liquefaction solvent molecular weight
PublicationCurrently, the plastics industry including polyurethanes is based on the use of petrochemicals. For this reason, scientists are looking for new types of renewable resources for the substitution of petrochemical substances. This work aims to evaluate the effect of polyethylene glycols (PEG) with different molecular mass impact on properties of bio-based polyols synthesized via biomass liquefaction of cellulose. To date, research...
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Comparative Analysis of the Cofee and Cocoa Industry By‑Products on the Performance of Polyethylene‑Based Composites
PublicationThe application of plant-based by-products from the food industry as minimally processed functional fillers for polymeric composites is an increasingly popular trend among researchers and manufacturers. While minimizing the preprocessing of lignocellulosic fillers leads to an increase in the sustainability of the overall composite and a decrease of the carbon footprint, filler modification is usually indispensable to obtaining...
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Comparison of the Efficiency of Hetero- and Homogeneous Catalysts in Cellulose Liquefaction
PublicationBiomass liquefaction is a well-known and extensively described process. Hydrothermal processes are well understood and can be used in the fuel industry. The use of organic solvents can result in full-fledged products for use in the synthesis of polyurethanes. The plastics industry, including polyurethanes, is targeting new, more environmentally friendly solutions. One of these is the replacement of petrochemical polyols with compounds...
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Compatibility of Sustainable Mater-Bi/poly(ε-caprolactone)/cellulose Biocomposites as a Function of Filler Modification
PublicationDespite their popularity and multiplicity of applications, wood–polymer composites (WPCs) still have to overcome particular issues related to their processing and properties. The main aspect is the compatibility with plant-based materials which affects the overall performance of the material. It can be enhanced by strengthening the interfacial adhesion resulting from physical and/or chemical interactions between the matrix and...
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Giant Reed (Arundo donax L.) Fiber Extraction and Characterization for Its Use in Polymer Composites
PublicationThis work describes an extraction method for giant reed fibers from stems and leaves based on chemical soaking and crushing through a rolling mill. Obtained fibers, together with the shredded plant (stems + leaves), are characterized in terms of chemical composition, thermal stability, morphology, and crystallinity. Mechanical properties of fibers have also been assessed (single fiber tensile tests). The results show that the proposed...
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Ground lemon and stevia leaves as renewable functional fillers with antioxidant activity for high-density polyethylene composites
PublicationThe development of new sustainable material solutions in the processing of thermoplastic polymers concerns both the application of biopolymers and the use of valorized plant derivatives as fillers and modifiers of petrochemical polymers. Herein, the possibility of using unprocessed raw parts of two commonly used in the food industry leaves, i.e., lemon (LL) and stevia (ST), as active and functional fillers for high-density polyethylene...
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Influence of Surface-Modified Montmorillonite Clays on the Properties of Elastomeric Thin Layer Nanocomposites
PublicationIn recent years, polyurethane nanocomposites have attracted more attention due to the massive demand for materials with increasingly exceptional mechanical, optical, electrical, and thermal properties. As nanofillers have a high surface area, the interaction between the nanofiller and the polymer matrix is an essential issue for these materials. The main aim of this study is to validate the impact of the montmorillonite nanofiller...
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Insights into Seawater Biodegradation of Sustainable Mater-Bi/Poly(ε-caprolactone)-Based Biocomposites Filled with Diisocyanate-Modified Cellulose Particles
Publication: Due to rapid economic growth, the use of plastics in almost all areas of human life has significantly increased over recent decades, leading to massive pollution. Therefore, works dealing with sustainable and biodegradable polymer materials are vital now. Herein, sustainable MaterBi/poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL)-based biocomposites, filled with diisocyanate-modified cellulose particles, were prepared and subjected to 12-week seawater...
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Management of ground tire rubber waste by incorporation into polyurethane-based composite foams
PublicationRapid economic growth implicated the developing multiple industry sectors, including the automotive branch, increasing waste generation since recycling and utilization methods have not been established simultaneously. A very severe threat is the generation of enormous amounts of post-consumer tires considered burdensome waste, e.g., due to the substantial emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Therefore, it is essential...
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Polyurethane-wood composites (PU-WC) as a method of wood waste management
PublicationIn recent years, due to the progressive environmental degradation and increase of environmental awareness, the sustainability of production systems in wood processing, the wood industry, and wood waste management is a crucial issue for European industry and society. Consequently, the problem of generating wood-like waste and the associated risks has become an increasingly noticeable challenge for science. Although various methods...
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Pyrolysis and Torrefaction—Thermal Treatment of Creosote-Impregnated Railroad Ties as a Method of Utilization
PublicationA fundamental issue of waste management and the rail transport industry is the problem of utilizing used railroad ties. Wooden railroad ties are treated with a preservative, usually creosote. Due to their high toxicity, railroad ties are considered hazardous waste and must be utilized under various directives. It is proposed to utilize the troublesome waste by using the pyrolysis and torrefaction process. The research proves that...
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Sustainable Chemically Modified Mater-Bi/Poly(ε-caprolactone)/Cellulose Biocomposites: Looking at the Bulk through the Surface
PublicationSustainable polymer composites are progressively under development in a technological paradigm shift from "just use more and more" to "convert into value-added products". The bio-based blends based on Mater-Bi bio-plastic (A) and poly(ε-caprolactone) (B), at a weight ratio of 70:30 (A:B) were developed, followed by the addition of UFC100 cellulose (C) filler to yield 70/30 (w/w) (A:B)/C sustainable biocomposites. The effects of...
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Sustainable Strategy for Algae Biomass Waste Management via Development of Novel Bio-Based Thermoplastic Polyurethane Elastomers Composites
PublicationThis work concerns the waste management method of algae biomass wastes (ABW). For this purpose, we prepared bio-based thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer (bio-TPU) composites. Algae biomass wastes are derived from algal oil extraction of Chlorella vulgaris and from biomass of Enteromorpha and Zostera marina. ABWs were used in the bio-TPUs composites as a filler in the quantity of 1, 5, 10, and 15 wt.%. The bio-based composites...
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The effect of hybridization of fire retarded epoxy/flax-cotton fiber laminates by expanded vermiculite: Structure-property relationship study
PublicationThe study describes the hybridization of epoxy/flax-cotton (EP/FF) composites containing ammonium polyphosphate (APP) with micrometric expanded vermiculite (VMT) (1–10 wt%). The efficiency of hybridization of flame retarded epoxy/flax-cotton composites was assessed by performing static tensile and flexural strength evaluation, supplemented by impact strength measurements of the composites. Moreover, thermal and thermomechanical...
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The impact of filler thermomechanical modifications on static and dynamic mechanical performance of flexible foamed polyurethane/ground tire rubber/zinc borate composites
PublicationThe rapid development of the automotive industry is very beneficial to many aspects of human life, but it is also a very significant environmental burden. The most straightforward impact is related to the generation of exhaust, but the management of post-consumer car parts is also a major challenge. Among them, waste tires are very burdensome due to their enormous numbers. Therefore, it is essential to develop novel, environmentally...
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Waste printer ink as modifier for natural rubber/carbon black composites: No haste, use waste
PublicationFrom a sustainability perspective, achieving a greener future with a minimal carbon footprint requires maximizing waste materials' reuse. The four pillars of satisfying customer demands are processing, price, properties, and performance. Along with such a global policy, this work seeks to utilize waste printer ink (WPI) as a source of carbon in combination with low- and high-surface carbon black (LCB and HCB, respectively) additives...
Year 2024
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Effect of bio-polyol molecular weight on the structure and properties of polyurethane-polyisocyanurate (PUR-PIR) foams
PublicationThe increasing interest in polyurethane materials has raised the question of the environmental impact of these materials. For this reason, the scientists aim to find an extremely difficult balance between new material technologies and sustainable development. This work attempts to validate the possibility of replacing petrochemical polyols with previously synthesized bio-polyols and their impact on the structure and properties...
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Influence of Giant Reed (Arundo Donax L.) Culms Processing Procedure on Physicochemical, Rheological, and Thermomechanical Properties of Polyethylene Composites
PublicationGiant reed (Arundo donax L.) is a plant species with a high growth rate and low requirements, which makes it particularly interesting for the production of different bioproducts, including natural fibers. This work assesses the use of fibers obtained from reed culms as reinforcement for a high-density polyethylene (HDPE) matrix. Two different lignocellulosic materials were used: i) shredded culms and ii) fibers obtained by culms...
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More than just a beer – Brewers' spent grain, spent hops, and spent yeast as potential functional fillers for polymer composites
PublicationBeer is among the most popular beverages in the world, with the production distributed uniformly between the biggest continents, so the utilization of brewing by-products is essential on a global scale. Among their potential recipients, the plastics industry offers extensive range of potential products. Herein, the presented study investigated the application of currently underutilized solid brewing by-products (brewers' spent...
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The Impact of Hybrid Flame Retardant Compositions on the Performance of Foamed Flexible Polyurethane/Ground Tire Rubber Composites
PublicationCurrent sustainability-oriented trends affect polyurethane (PU) materials and stimulate the incorporation of recycled or waste-based materials as fillers. Ground tire rubber (GTR) poses as an auspicious candidate due to the excellent performance of car tires. Despite the benefits related to the mechanical performance, it contributes to the increasing flammability of the resulting composites. Herein, presented work assessed the...
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