Phthalonitrile Polymer Foam For High Temperature Applications

This work presents the development of light weight foams based on phthalonitrile thermoset resin for high temperature applications. An effective foaming method was established through synchronizing the polymer viscosity profile and the thermal decomposition of chemical blowing agent. The effects of various foaming parameters, including the viscosity, foaming agents, and temperature on the foaming were discussed. Rigid closed-cell foams with density as low as 0.08 g/cm(3) were obtained and can be used at temperature up to 300 degrees C. The thermal properties obtained from the foams were unattainable by other reported thermoset foams.