An AC foaming agent, also known as Azodicarbonamide, is a chemical compound commonly used as a blowing agent in the production of foamed plastics and rubber materials. It plays a crucial role in generating gas to create a cellular structure within the polymer matrix during the foaming process. When exposed to heat, AC decomposes, releasing nitrogen gas, which expands and forms bubbles throughout the material. This results in the formation of a foam with reduced density and improved insulation properties. AC foaming agents are widely utilized in various industries, including automotive, construction, packaging, and consumer goods, to produce lightweight, durable, and cost-effective foamed products.
Advantages of AC Foaming Agent
Lightweight materials
AC foaming agents facilitate the production of foamed materials with reduced density, making them lighter in weight compared to solid materials. This characteristic is particularly beneficial in applications where weight reduction is desired, such as automotive components and packaging materials, as it can lead to improved fuel efficiency and reduced transportation costs.
Thermal insulation
Foamed materials produced with AC foaming agents exhibit excellent thermal insulation properties, making them suitable for applications where temperature control is important. These materials help to minimize heat transfer, providing insulation against both heat and cold. This property is advantageous in construction materials, refrigeration insulation, and thermal packaging.
Improved mechanical properties
Despite their reduced density, foamed materials produced with AC foaming agents can retain adequate mechanical properties such as strength, stiffness, and impact resistance. The cellular structure of the foam provides structural reinforcement, enhancing the material's mechanical performance. This makes them suitable for structural components and load-bearing applications.
Versatile applications
AC foaming agents can be used with a wide range of polymers, including polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, PVC, and rubber. This versatility allows for the production of foamed materials tailored to specific application requirements across various industries, including automotive, construction, packaging, footwear, and consumer goods.
Why Choose US
R&D
Invests heavily in R&D, continuously improving their product offerings and staying at the forefront of new material technology. Their dedication to innovation means customers can benefit from cutting-edge solutions.
Customization services
They provide customization services to meet specific customer requirements, ensuring that clients receive products that exactly fit their needs.
Experienced team
The company employs a team of experienced professionals with expertise in new material technologies, ensuring that their products and services are backed by deep knowledge and technical proficiency.
24h online service
We try and respond to all concerns within 24 hours and our teams are always at your disposal in case of any emergencies.
In the foaming process, AC foaming agent, also known as azodicarbonamide, serves a critical role in generating gas to create a cellular structure within the polymer matrix. When subjected to elevated temperatures, typically ranging from 150℃ to 200℃ (302℉ to 392℉), AC foaming agent undergoes thermal decomposition. This decomposition process releases gas, primarily nitrogen (N2), as well as other byproducts like carbon monoxide (CO) and ammonia (NH3). The released gas acts as a blowing agent within the molten polymer matrix, forming bubbles that nucleate and grow as gas diffuses through the material. As the gas bubbles expand, they create voids or pores throughout the polymer, resulting in the formation of a foam structure. This foam structure exhibits reduced density compared to the solid polymer, imparting lightweight characteristics to the material. Additionally, the cellular structure of the foam provides insulation properties, as the gas-filled cells act as barriers to heat transfer. To stabilize the foam and prevent bubble coalescence or collapse, additives or surfactants may be included in the foaming agent formulation. AC foaming agent facilitates controlled foaming processes, allowing for the production of lightweight, thermally insulating materials suitable for various applications.
Can Ac Foaming Agent Be Used in Combination with Other Additives
AC foaming agent can be used in combination with other additives to achieve specific performance requirements and tailor the properties of the foamed material. Some common additives that are often combined with AC foaming agent include:
Foam stabilizers
Additives such as surfactants or foam stabilizers are used to control the size, distribution, and stability of the gas bubbles formed during the foaming process. These additives help prevent bubble coalescence or collapse, ensuring uniform foaming and desirable foam properties.
Nucleating agents
Nucleating agents promote the formation and growth of gas bubbles within the polymer matrix, enhancing foaming efficiency and controlling cell structure. They act as "seed" particles for bubble formation, leading to finer and more uniform cell sizes in the foam.
Plasticizers
Plasticizers are additives that improve the flexibility, workability, and processability of the polymer matrix. They help reduce the viscosity of the polymer melt, facilitating foam expansion and uniform dispersion of the foaming agent within the material.
Fillers and reinforcements
Fillers such as calcium carbonate, talc, or glass fibers may be added to the foaming agent formulation to enhance mechanical properties, thermal stability, or dimensional stability of the foamed material. These fillers provide reinforcement and improve the overall performance of the foam.
Flame retardants
Flame retardant additives may be incorporated into the foaming agent formulation to improve the fire resistance properties of the foamed material. These additives help reduce the flammability of the foam and enhance its safety in fire-prone environments.
AC Foaming Agent and NC Foaming Agent Together
On PVC foam platics, usually we used AC blowing agent and NC blowing agent together,AC blowing agent(Azodicanrbonate), it is one type exothermic chemical foaming agent,,The decomposition temperature is very high, can reach 200-205 degrees, this temperature is far beyond the PVC processing temperature, so need reduce the decomposition temperature of AC blowing agent. At the same time, the foaming rate is also high, about 190-260ml/g, The decomposition rate is fast and the heat release is great, but the foaming time is short and the burst is strong.
So when AC foaming agent dosage excessive, gas volume is too large, the pressure inside the bubble growth, bubble size growth is too large, rapid release of gas, the bubble structure damage, bubble size distribution is uneven, and the formation of open pore structure, will produce larger bubbles and holes in the local.
NC blowing agent( white blowing agent), it is one one type endothermic chemical foaming agent, the docompostions,tempreture abaot 130-140degree, foaming rate abaot 130, Although NC blowing agent has low foaming rate, but it has a long foaming time and can be mixed with AC foaming agent, it can play a complementary and balanced role.
AC foaming agent improves the gas generating ability of NC foaming agent. NC foaming agent can make AC foaming agent cool, stability, keep AC decomposition and release gas evenly, inhibit the overheating degradation of plate, and reduce residue precipitation.
Therefore, PVC foam plastics usually use NC blowing agent replace part of AC blowing agent. Preventing bubble breaking caused by AC foaming agent.
Features of AC Foaming Agent
AC foaming agent, or azodicarbonamide, exhibits several key features that make it a widely used blowing agent in the production of foamed materials. Firstly, it is thermally decomposable, meaning it breaks down at elevated temperatures to release gas, primarily nitrogen, which acts as a blowing agent to create a cellular structure within the polymer matrix. This process leads to the formation of foamed materials with reduced density, making them lightweight and conducive to applications where weight reduction is desired, such as automotive components and packaging materials. Additionally, AC foaming agent provides excellent thermal insulation properties, as the gas-filled cells within the foam act as barriers to heat transfer. This makes foamed materials produced with AC foaming agent suitable for applications requiring temperature control, such as construction insulation and thermal packaging. Furthermore, AC foaming agent is versatile and compatible with a wide range of polymers, allowing for the production of foamed materials tailored to specific application requirements across various industries. the features of AC foaming agent, including its thermal decomposability, lightweight nature, thermal insulation properties, versatility, and compatibility, contribute to its widespread use and effectiveness in foamed material applications.
The Chemical Composition of AC Foaming Agent
The chemical composition of AC foaming agent, or azodicarbonamide, consists of carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and hydrogen atoms. Its molecular formula is C2H4N4O2. Azodicarbonamide is a yellow to orange crystalline powder that decomposes upon heating to release gas, primarily nitrogen (N2), along with other byproducts such as carbon monoxide (CO) and ammonia (NH3). This thermal decomposition process is key to its function as a blowing agent in the production of foamed materials. Azodicarbonamide is characterized by its ability to break down at elevated temperatures, typically between 150°C to 200°C (302°F to 392°F), to generate gas, which creates a cellular structure within the polymer matrix, resulting in the formation of foamed materials with reduced density and improved insulation properties.
How Does the Processing Temperature Affect the Performance of AC Foaming Agent
The processing temperature significantly influences the performance of AC foaming agent, or azodicarbonamide, in the foaming process. Generally, higher processing temperatures lead to more rapid decomposition of the foaming agent, resulting in increased gas generation and foam expansion. As the temperature rises, the rate of thermal decomposition of azodicarbonamide accelerates, leading to more efficient release of gas, primarily nitrogen, and other byproducts. This increased gas generation promotes the formation of larger gas bubbles within the polymer matrix, leading to greater foam expansion and lower foam density. Consequently, foamed materials produced at higher processing temperatures tend to exhibit larger cell sizes, reduced density, and improved thermal insulation properties. However, excessively high temperatures can also lead to degradation of the polymer matrix and affect the mechanical properties of the foam. Therefore, it's important to optimize the processing temperature within a suitable range to balance foaming efficiency, foam quality, and material performance. By controlling the processing temperature carefully, manufacturers can tailor the properties of foamed materials produced with AC foaming agent to meet specific application requirements, such as foam density, cell structure, mechanical strength, and thermal insulation properties.
Can AC Foaming Agent Be Used in Conjunction with Chemical Blowing Agents
AC foaming agent, or azodicarbonamide, can be used in conjunction with other chemical blowing agents to achieve specific foaming objectives and enhance the performance of foamed materials. When used together, these blowing agents can complement each other's characteristics and provide synergistic effects in the foaming process. For example, combining AC foaming agent with a chemical blowing agent that decomposes at a different temperature range can broaden the temperature window for foaming and allow for more precise control over foam expansion and properties. Additionally, using multiple blowing agents can help overcome limitations associated with individual agents, such as insufficient gas release or narrow processing temperature range. By optimizing the combination and concentration of blowing agents, manufacturers can tailor foamed materials to meet specific application requirements, such as foam density, cell structure, mechanical properties, and thermal insulation performance. However, it's essential to consider factors such as compatibility between blowing agents, processing conditions, and foam stabilization mechanisms when using them in conjunction. Careful formulation and testing are necessary to ensure that the combined blowing agents effectively achieve the desired foaming objectives without compromising foam quality or material performance.
Can AC Foaming Agent Improve the Insulation Properties of Materials
AC foaming agent, or azodicarbonamide, can significantly improve the insulation properties of materials when used in the foaming process. When azodicarbonamide decomposes at elevated temperatures, it releases gas, primarily nitrogen, which creates a cellular structure within the polymer matrix. This cellular structure forms a network of small, closed cells throughout the material, which acts as a barrier to heat transfer.
The presence of these gas-filled cells in the foam significantly reduces thermal conductivity, thereby enhancing the material's insulation properties. Foamed materials produced with AC foaming agent exhibit lower thermal conductivity compared to solid materials, making them effective insulators against both heat and cold. the closed-cell structure of the foam minimizes convective heat transfer, further enhancing thermal insulation properties. As a result, foamed materials produced with AC foaming agent are commonly used in applications where thermal insulation is critical, such as construction materials, refrigeration insulation, thermal packaging, and automotive components.
The Production Process of AC Foaming Agent
Synthesis of azodicarbonamide
Azodicarbonamide is synthesized through a reaction between urea and hydrazine sulfate or sodium hypochlorite. This reaction produces azodicarbonamide as a yellow to orange crystalline powder.
Purification
The crude azodicarbonamide is purified to remove impurities and byproducts from the synthesis process. Purification may involve processes such as recrystallization or filtration.
Drying
The purified azodicarbonamide is dried to remove any residual moisture, ensuring the stability of the product and preventing premature decomposition.
Particle size reduction
The dried azodicarbonamide may undergo particle size reduction through grinding or milling to achieve the desired particle size distribution. This step helps ensure uniform dispersion and efficient decomposition during the foaming process.
Formulation
Azodicarbonamide is formulated with other additives, such as foam stabilizers, plasticizers, and nucleating agents, to optimize its performance in the foaming process. The formulation is adjusted based on the specific application requirements and processing conditions.
Packaging
The final AC foaming agent product is packaged into suitable containers, such as bags or drums, for storage, transportation, and distribution to customers.
Is AC Foaming Agent Compatible with Various Types of Polymers
AC foaming agent, or azodicarbonamide, is compatible with various types of polymers, making it a versatile blowing agent for a wide range of applications. Azodicarbonamide can be used with polymers such as:
Polyethylene (PE): AC foaming agent is commonly used with polyethylene to produce foamed materials for applications such as packaging, insulation, and construction.
Polypropylene (PP): PP is another polymer that can be foamed using AC foaming agent, resulting in lightweight materials with thermal insulation properties.
Polyurethane (PU): While less common, AC foaming agent can be used in combination with other blowing agents to foam polyurethane materials for applications such as insulation, cushioning, and furniture. Foamed polystyrene materials, including expanded polystyrene (EPS) and extruded polystyrene (XPS), can be produced with the help of AC foaming agent for applications such as insulation, packaging, and food containers.
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC): PVC foams can be manufactured using AC foaming agent to produce lightweight materials for applications such as building and construction, automotive interiors, and signage.
Rubber: AC foaming agent is also compatible with rubber materials, including natural rubber (NR) and synthetic rubbers such as styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) and ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (EPDM). Foamed rubber products find applications in automotive components, footwear, and insulation.
Polyurethane (PU): While less common, AC foaming agent can be used in combination with other blowing agents to foam polyurethane materials for applications such as insulation, cushioning, and furniture.
Can AC Foaming Agent Be Used in High-Temperature Applications
AC foaming agent, or azodicarbonamide, is typically not suitable for high-temperature applications due to its decomposition temperature range. Azodicarbonamide decomposes at elevated temperatures, typically between 150°C to 200°C (302°F to 392°F), releasing gas to create a foamed structure within the polymer matrix. However, prolonged exposure to temperatures above its decomposition range can lead to premature decomposition and degradation of the foamed material. For high-temperature applications where temperatures exceed the decomposition range of azodicarbonamide, alternative blowing agents with higher decomposition temperatures may be more suitable. These blowing agents can withstand the elevated temperatures encountered during processing and application without premature decomposition, ensuring the stability and integrity of the foamed material.
In applications where thermal stability and resistance to heat are critical, such as automotive under-the-hood components, building materials exposed to high temperatures, or food packaging for hot-fill applications, alternative foaming technologies or additives that can withstand higher temperatures may be preferred over AC foaming agent. while AC foaming agent is effective for foaming materials at moderate temperatures, it may not be suitable for high-temperature applications where thermal stability and resistance to heat are required. It's essential to consider the specific requirements of the application and select the appropriate blowing agent accordingly.
How to Choose AC Foaming Agent
Application requirements
Determine the specific requirements of the application, including foam density, cell structure, mechanical properties, thermal insulation properties, and processing conditions. Understanding these requirements will help identify the most suitable AC foaming agent formulation and concentration.
Polymer compatibility
Consider the compatibility of AC foaming agent with the polymer or polymer blend used in the application. Azodicarbonamide is compatible with various polymers, including polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, PVC, rubber, and polyurethane. Ensure that the foaming agent is compatible with the selected polymer to achieve desired foam properties and performance characteristics.
Foaming temperature range
Determine the foaming temperature range required for the application. Azodicarbonamide decomposes at elevated temperatures, typically between 150℃ to 200℃ (302℉ to 392℉). Ensure that the foaming temperature range aligns with the processing conditions of the application to achieve efficient foam expansion and desired foam properties.
Foam properties
Evaluate the desired foam properties, such as foam density, cell size, distribution, and stability. Different AC foaming agent formulations and concentrations can result in variations in foam properties. Choose the foaming agent formulation that best meets the specific foam requirements of the application.
Application of AC Foaming Agent
Packaging
AC foaming agent is widely used in the production of foamed packaging materials such as expanded polystyrene (EPS) and polyethylene (PE) foam. Foamed packaging materials provide cushioning, protection, and insulation for fragile items during transportation and storage.
Construction
Foamed materials produced with AC foaming agent are used in construction applications for thermal insulation, soundproofing, and lightweight structural components. Examples include insulation boards, wall panels, and roofing materials.
Automotive
AC foaming agent is utilized in automotive applications to produce lightweight, energy-absorbing components such as interior trim, seat cushions, headrests, and noise insulation materials. Foamed materials help improve fuel efficiency, reduce vehicle weight, and enhance passenger comfort.
Footwear
Foamed rubber and plastic materials produced with AC foaming agent are used in footwear manufacturing to provide cushioning, shock absorption, and comfort. Foamed materials are commonly used in shoe midsoles, insoles, and outsoles.
Insulation
AC foaming agent is employed in the production of thermal insulation materials for buildings, refrigeration systems, and appliances. Foamed insulation materials offer effective heat and cold insulation, reducing energy consumption and enhancing comfort.
Consumer goods
Foamed materials produced with AC foaming agent are used in various consumer goods such as toys, sporting equipment, and recreational products. Foamed materials provide cushioning, buoyancy, and impact resistance in these applications.
Food packaging
Foamed polystyrene and polyethylene packaging materials produced with AC foaming agent are commonly used in food packaging applications, including disposable cups, trays, containers, and foodservice packaging.
Textiles
Foamed materials produced with AC foaming agent can be incorporated into textiles and fabrics to provide cushioning, padding, and insulation properties in garments, upholstery, and bedding products.
What You Should Know When Use AC Foaming Agent
Safety precautions: Azodicarbonamide can pose health risks if mishandled. Follow appropriate safety protocols, including wearing protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, and respiratory protection when handling the foaming agent. Ensure adequate ventilation in the workplace to minimize exposure to airborne particles.
Handling and storage: Store AC foaming agent in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and incompatible materials. Follow proper handling procedures to prevent spills, contamination, and exposure to moisture, which can affect the stability and performance of the foaming agent.
Optimal formulation: Select the appropriate AC foaming agent formulation and concentration based on the specific requirements of your application. Consider factors such as polymer compatibility, foaming temperature range, foam properties, and processing conditions to achieve desired foam quality and performance characteristics.
Processing conditions: Optimize processing parameters such as temperature, pressure, residence time, and mixing conditions to ensure efficient foaming and uniform distribution of the foaming agent within the polymer matrix. Monitor processing parameters closely to prevent overheating or under-processing, which can affect foam quality and performance.
Foam quality control: Implement quality control measures to monitor foam density, cell structure, distribution, stability, and mechanical properties. Conduct regular testing and analysis to ensure that foamed materials meet specified requirements and performance standards
Environmental considerations: Minimize environmental impact by implementing proper waste management practices for handling, storage, and disposal of AC foaming agent and associated materials. Follow regulations and guidelines for safe disposal of waste materials and recycling options where feasible.
Our Factory
Since 2003, our company has been specializing in the R&D, production and sales of plastic additives (PVC environment-friendly calcium zinc stabilizer, plastic special lubricant, special foaming agent). The self built factories Anhui Koery New Materials Co., Ltd (Economic Development Zone, Susong County, Anhui Province, China) and Anhui Guangyu New Material Technology Co., Ltd (Polymer Industrial Park, Zhangbaling Town, Mingguang City, Anhui Province, China) have a total registered capital of 25 million yuan, covering an area of 50 mu. And have mature plastic additive production lines and supporting R&D equipment, and the annual production capacity of various types of plastic additives reaches 40000 tons.
FAQ
Q: What is AC Foaming Agent?
Q: Why is Aluminum Chloride used as a foaming agent?
Q: How does AC Foaming Agent work in foam production?
Q: What are the advantages of using Aluminum Chloride?
Q: How should AC Foaming Agent be stored?
Q: Can AC Foaming Agent be recycled?
Q: What role does Aluminum Chloride play in the polyurethane industry?
Q: How does the choice of Aluminum Chloride impact foam performance?
Q: Is Aluminum Chloride suitable for rigid polyurethane foam applications?
Q: How can issues with foaming be addressed when using Aluminum Chloride?
Q: Are there any limitations to using Aluminum Chloride as a foaming agent?
Q: How does the regulatory environment affect the use of Aluminum Chloride?
Q: Can Aluminum Chloride be customized for specific applications?
Q: How should Aluminum Chloride be disposed of safely?
Q: What trends are there in the development of Aluminum Chloride foaming agents?
Q: Where can more information about Aluminum Chloride foaming agents be found?
Q: How does Aluminum Chloride compare to other catalysts in foam production?
Q: Can Aluminum Chloride be used in combination with other catalysts?
Q: What are best practices for using Aluminum Chloride as a foaming agent?
Q: What considerations are there for incorporating Aluminum Chloride into a polyurethane system?
