Ultra-low density composites (ULDC) are made from composite materials that have a very low weight per unit volume. This is a significant advantage in a range of applications, including the thermal and acoustic insulation materials used in construction and other industries.
FPInnovations is researching the use of wood fibres in producing ULDC as rigid exterior thermal insulation panels for buildings.
A new high consistency continuous foaming process has now been developed and pilot scale experiments have reinforced the potential. This process involves shredding and disintegrating market pulp (or any other form of fibre source such as recycled paper) in a primary refiner while introducing chemicals, followed by feeding of the pulp into a secondary refiner for continuous foam generation by injection of a foaming agent and air.
Foams of uniform consistencies as high as 17% have been achieved, which can lead to reduced drying times and energy use, making commercialisation of this process very attractive.
Click here for source (FPSolutions)
