Flexible Foam Systems

Flexible Foam Systems Flexible Foam Systems Compliant with E.C.E.R.118.03 Standard for the Automotive Sector Polyurethane systems formed through the reaction of polyol and isocyanate exhibit different properties such as rigid, flexible and semi-flexible depending on the additives and raw materials used. The flexibility of the product and open/closed cell ratios can be adjusted through the characteristics of the polyol selected within the system and other raw materials. Systems developed for specific target products are applied using different production technologies such as spray, molding, casting and pouring. Flexible foam systems, used in many different sectors including automotive, office and medical, are particularly preferred in the automotive sector for ergonomics and safety factors. Due to properties such as the system's density, the foam's resilience (rebound) and low permanent deformation percentage, flexible foam systems are widely used. Beyond ergonomics and comfort, due to safety factors, the requirement for the product to be fire-resistant, prevent flame propagation, and prevent combustion in areas where flames drip—thus ensuring personal safety—is driving automotive manufacturers to use products with certified flame-resistance performance. The automotive sector expects flexible polyurethane systems used in vehicle seats to meet the requirements of the ECE. R. 118. 03 standard (Annex 6, 7 and 8). Within this standard, the product's horizontal burning (Annex 6), dripping (Annex 7) and vertical burning (Annex 8) behaviors are tested. In the Annex 6 test, a sample of appropriate dimensions is held in a horizontal position and exposed to flame, and the test result is expected to show a maximum flame propagation rate of 100 mm/min. In the Annex 7 test, the sample is placed under a 500 W radiant heat source with cotton placed beneath the sample, and the test result is expected to show that the sample does not melt or that any droplets resulting from melting do not ignite the cotton. In the Annex 8 test, a sample of appropriate dimensions is held in a vertical position and exposed to flame, and the test result is expected to show a maximum flame propagation rate of 100 mm/min. Flokser Kimya, which develops products with customer satisfaction and expectations in mind, brings products to market to meet the needs of the automotive sector. With its latest developed product, the Creapol SUN 8010/54 system, Flokser Kimya has completed the product's certification process by testing its flame-resistance performance—required for safety—at accredited bodies, in addition to offering ergonomics and comfort properties. The physical and mechanical test results for the Creapol SUN 8010/54 product introduced to the market are shared in Table 1.

Visual images of samples from E.C.E.R. 118.03 fire resistance performance test results are shared in Figure 1.

The mechanical properties of the Creapol SUN 8010/54 system such as permanent deformation value, tear resistance, elongation at break and tensile strength have been optimized in accordance with automotive sector requirements to provide comfort and ergonomics. Flame-resistance performance—one of the most important parameters expected from polyurethane systems used in this sector—has been brought to market with our newly developed product. Dr. Serpil Yılmaztürk Güney Product Development Manager Flokser Kimya Mehmet Başdal Product Development Specialist Flokser Kimya Tuğçe Karul Product Development Officer Flokser Kimya