Analysis of the mechanical properties of polymer materials considering lateral confinement effects

Abstract

Abstract The mechanical properties of polyurethane foam (PUF) and glass fiber-reinforced PUF (R-PUF), which are widely used in various fields, were investigated considering the influence of lateral confinement. PUF and R-PUF – representative polymeric foams with a porous structure – are suitable for severe environments (e.g. the cryogenic field) because they have an excellent adiabatic function and load-bearing capability. However, when PUF and R-PUF are used in actual structures, the mechanical performance of the foam materials may change depending on the conditions. Assuming that a compressive load acts on these polymeric foams in a confined space, analysis of the material properties resulting from the confining pressure of the adjacent structures is necessary. Therefore, in this study, a comparison and evaluation of the mechanical behavior of PUF and R-PUF were performed with regard to the constraint. The results suggest that it is possible to provide an experimental basis for measuring the strength performance for the application of insulation in a confined space.