Blowing agents are substances used in the production of foams, which create gas and expand plastic materials to form a lightweight, cellular structure. These agents are crucial in the plastics, rubber, and packaging industries. By releasing gas during heating, they create bubbles or cells within the material, resulting in foams used in a wide range of applications, from insulation to automotive parts.
Blowing Agent | Key Properties | Applications |
---|---|---|
Azodicarbonamide (AC) | Releases nitrogen gas; used for flexible foams | Footwear, rubber, EVA foams |
OBSH (p-Toluenesulfonyl hydrazide) | Controlled gas release; fine foam structure | Footwear, EVA foams, flexible rubber foams |
Sodium Bicarbonate + Citric Acid | Eco-friendly, generates CO₂ gas | Food packaging, biodegradable foams |
Hydrocerol Series | Low-density, fine cell structure, high mechanical properties | Automotive, construction, rigid packaging foams |
Blowing agents are used in various industries to create lightweight and durable foams with specific properties. Their applications include: