A novel hybrid PU-alumina flexible foam with superior hydrophilicity and adsorption of carcinogenic compounds from tobacco smoke

A novel porous polyurethane (PU) hybrid foam was designed to improve the hydrophilicity of a conventional open pore PU foam, and to enhance the adsorption of carcinogenic compounds from tobacco smoke.The hybrid foam was prepared by interdispersing ultramilled alumina particles within PU precursors to realize a PU/Al2O3 hybrid porous material with well controlled microstructural properties and improved hydrophilicity. The capability of the as obtained hybrid foam to adsorb toxic compounds from the mainstream of tobacco smoke was investigated by using a cellulose-active carbon-cellulose triple filter model, and the results were compared to those obtained for neat PU foam and the standard cigarette filter tip.The results of this study showed that the ultramilled alumina particles enhanced both thermal stability and hydrophilicity of the neat PU foam. Furthermore, the as-obtained hybrid PU/Al2O3 foam was able to improve the adsorption of nitrosamines, acetamide, idroquinone, cresol and small aminic and aldehydic molecules, if compared to neat PU foam and standard cigarette filter tip, evidencing potential as tobacco smoke filter.

A novel hybrid PU/Al2O3 foam was designed as absorbent material. If compared to neat PU foam, the hybrid foam demonstrated improved hydrophilicity and enhanced adsorption of carcinogenic compounds from tobacco smoke.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Hybrid PU/Al2O3 flexible foam.
► Improved thermal stability and hydrophilicity.
► High adsorption of nitrosamines, phenols and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.