Hydroxyalkoxy derivatives of oxamic acid: polyol substrates for polyurethane foams

BACKGROUND: The work reported aimed at obtaining hydroxyalkoxy derivatives containing oxalamidoester groups starting from oxamic acid (OA) substrate. These derivatives were then used for the synthesis of polyurethane foams.

RESULTS: The hydroxyalkoxy derivatives were obtained by reaction of OA with 6 to 15 molar excess of ethylene carbonate (1,3‐dioxolane‐2‐one) or propylene carbonate (4‐methyl‐1,3‐dioxolane‐2‐one). The products obtained have good thermal stability and possess suitable physical properties for use as substrates for foamed polyurethanes.

CONCLUSION: The rigid polyurethane foams obtained from the hydroxyalkoxy derivatives of OA possess enhanced thermal stability and good mechanical properties in comparison with traditional polyurethane foams. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry