Biodegradable, Rigid Polyurethane Foams

Rigid, open cell polyurethane foams were developed from chemically unmodified natural products as polyols and reactive additives. In some cases no polyol derived from petrochemicals was used. The foams were produced without the use of physical blowing agents and at low isocyanate indices. The foams passed standard and modified biodegradation tests, including ASTM D-5338 Controlled Composting Test. These biodegradable foams may be used, for example, as supports for dried or silk flower arrangements, or when rendered hydrophilic they may be used to support fresh flower arrangements.