Polyurethane foam in 2017: Grenfell context

Polyurethane foam (R-NH-COO-R′ network + blowing agent) is a family of grades whose density 30–60 kg/m³ rigid boards, heat band pyrolyses; does not melt cleanly, and fire letter typically E–B with facers; not A1. Polyurethane foam is sold as grades, not as a single substance. Chemistry R-NH-COO-R′ network + blowing agent, density 30–60 kg/m³ rigid boards, heat band pyrolyses; does not melt cleanly.

This atlas treats Polyurethane foam as a system: mill route, coatings, tests and the cavity it sits in. Conductivity note: λ ~0.022–0.028 W/m·K (aged PIR boards, bands). Insulation score 88/100 is relative to 32 entries — metals lose, VIPs and aerogels win. Fire letter in editorial use: typically E–B with facers; not A1. Do not equate A1 with “safe in a blaze” or E with “illegal”. Assemblies decide.

Origin: Otto Bayer 1937; fridge foam 1950s, Germany. The process chapter follows feedstock → conversion → forming → finish → install. Uses span buildings to defence / safety. Pairings matter: mineral-wool. Circularity mark 32/100. Ask which scrap, which certificate, which year. Related atlas entries, a short glossary, and three threads that keep Polyurethane foam honest.