Long-term anti-aging technology of reactive foaming catalyst in smart agricultural greenhouse insulation layer

Date：2025-03-20 Categories：Our Projects

Long-effect technology of anti-aging foaming catalyst in smart agricultural greenhouse insulation layer

1. Preface: Let the greenhouse “wear winter clothes”

On the stage of modern agriculture, smart agricultural greenhouses are like a shining pearl, and with their efficient, accurate and sustainable characteristics, they have become an important force in promoting agricultural modernization. However, like a dancer in thin clothes, it is difficult to maintain elegant pace in the cold winter, agricultural greenhouses also face the problem of insulation in low temperatures. To solve this problem, a new material called “reactive foaming catalyst” came into being. It is like a tailor-made “winter clothes”, providing warm and lasting protection for the greenhouse.

So, what is a reactive foaming catalyst? Simply put, this is a chemical that promotes the formation of foam plastics and enhances its properties. By applying this catalyst to the manufacturing process of greenhouse insulation layer, the insulation effect can not only be significantly improved, but also effectively extend the service life of the insulation layer. More importantly, this technology also has anti-aging properties. Even after a long period of sun and rain, the insulation layer can still maintain good performance, as if it has an “old body”.

This article will discuss the reactive foaming catalyst in the insulation layer of smart agricultural greenhouses, from technical principles to practical applications, from product parameters to domestic and foreign research progress, and strive to comprehensively analyze the charm and value of this technology. Whether you are an ordinary reader interested in agricultural technology or a professional in related fields, this article will provide you with rich knowledge and inspiration. Let us enter this world full of technology and see how to use a small catalyst to put a “longevity winter coat” on the agricultural greenhouse.

2. Definition and classification of reactive foaming catalysts

(I) Definition: The hero behind the catalytic miracle

Reactive foaming catalyst is a special chemical additive, and its main function is to accelerate or regulate the chemical reaction rate of foam plastics during the foaming process. By controlling the foaming speed, bubble size, and the physical properties of the final product, this catalyst can play a key role in the foam forming process. Specifically, reactive foaming catalysts can be divided into two categories: main catalyst and supply catalyst.

Pro-catalyst: core components that directly participate in and dominate the foaming reaction, such as amine compounds (such as triamines), tin compounds (such as dibutyltin dilaurate), etc.
Auxiliary Catalyst: A substance used to adjust the reaction rate, improve product performance or reduce side reactions, such as silane coupling agents, organic acid esters, etc.

These catalysts not only determine the density, strength and flexibility of foam plastics,It also greatly affects the durability and environmental protection of the product. Therefore, choosing the right catalyst is crucial to the production of high-quality greenhouse insulation.

(II) Category: Different needs, different formulas

Depending on the application scenario and technical requirements, reactive foaming catalysts can be further subdivided into the following categories:

Classification by chemical structure
- Amine catalyst: suitable for soft polyurethane foams, can quickly trigger the reaction between isocyanate and water.
- Tin catalyst: mainly used in rigid polyurethane foams, which helps to improve the crosslinking degree and mechanical strength of the foam.
- Silane catalysts: Commonly used in situations where waterproofing and weather resistance are high, it can give foam better surface properties.
Classification by function
- Foaming rate regulator: used to control the rate of foam expansion to ensure uniformity and stability.
- Crosslinking promoter: Enhance the binding force between foam molecules and improve overall mechanical properties.
- Anti-aging agent: delays the aging effect of ultraviolet rays, oxygen and moisture on foam and extends service life.
Category by field of use
- Agricultural special catalyst: designed for greenhouse insulation layer, focusing on thermal insulation performance and long-term stability.
- Catalytics for industrial construction: used in cold storage, pipeline insulation and other fields, emphasizing high strength and low thermal conductivity.
- Catalytics for home decoration: Suitable for furniture, mattresses and other industries, pursuing soft touch and comfortable experience.

A variety of complex application needs can be met by reasonably matching different types of catalysts. For example, in smart agricultural greenhouses, composite catalysts with high foaming efficiency and strong anti-aging capabilities are usually selected to ensure that the insulation layer is both light and durable.

3. The core principles of long-term anti-aging technology

(I) What is anti-aging?

The so-called “anti-aging” refers to the slowing down or preventing the performance decline of the material due to external factors (such as ultraviolet rays, humidity, temperature changes, etc.) through a series of technologies and means. Anti-aging technology is particularly important for the insulation layer of smart agricultural greenhouses, because these insulation layers are exposed to natural environments all year round and are very susceptible to wind and sun exposure, which leads to cracking, fading and even failure.

The core of anti-aging long-term technology lies in two aspects: one is to delay the breakage of the internal chemical bonds of the material; the other is to reduce the external environment to the materialSurface erosion. Specifically for the application of reactive foaming catalysts, the anti-aging effect can be achieved through the following mechanisms:

Stable free radical generation
During the foaming process of foaming, some active free radicals will inevitably be generated. If these free radicals are not processed in time, they may trigger a chain reaction and destroy the molecular structure of the material. Therefore, certain catalysts (such as phosphorus-containing compounds) are designed to capture free radicals, thus avoiding them from causing damage to the foam.
Enhance the interface bonding
Foam plastic consists of countless tiny bubbles, each of which needs a firm connection to ensure overall performance. By adding appropriate silane coupling agents or other interface modifiers, the bonding strength inside the foam can be significantly enhanced, making the material denser and less likely to be layered.
Block UV rays to invade
Ultraviolet rays are one of the main causes of plastic aging. To this end, the researchers have developed a variety of UV absorbers and light stabilizers that can convert UV light into harmless heat energy and release it, or directly shield away most of the UV radiation, thereby protecting the foam from damage.
Inhibiting moisture penetration
Moisture is also one of the important factors that threaten the lifespan of foam. When moisture penetrates into the inside of the foam, it may cause mold growth or chemical corrosion. To this end, hydrophobic components (such as fluorocarbons) can be added to the catalyst formulation to reduce the hygroscopicity of the foam and improve its waterproofing properties.

(II) Key points of long-term technology

To achieve true “long-term results”, relying solely on a single technical means is obviously not enough. Factors from multiple dimensions must be considered comprehensively, including but not limited to the following points:

Multi-layer protection system: build a multi-level protection barrier from the inside to the outside, ensuring that each layer can assume specific functions and jointly resist external infringement.
Dynamic Balance Control: Adjust the ratio and proportion of the catalyst in real time according to changes in actual usage conditions, and always maintain a good working condition.
Green and Environmental Protection Concept: Choose degradable or low-toxic raw materials to avoid secondary pollution to the ecological environment, and at the same time meet the needs of modern consumers for health and safety.

In short, long-term anti-aging technology is not a single magic potion, but a complete solution. Only by combining theory with practice can we truly create experienceHigh-quality insulation layer that takes the test of time.

IV. Detailed explanation of product parameters

In order to better understand the application of reactive foaming catalysts in the insulation layer of smart agricultural greenhouses, the following is a detailed parameter comparison table of several representative products:

parameter name	Product A (for agriculture)	Product B (industrial general)	Product C (Home Decoration)
Catalytic Type	Composite amine/tin mixture	Simple Tin	Pure amines
Foaming rate (s)	10~15	5~8	20~30
Density range (kg/m³)	25~40	40~60	15~25
Thermal conductivity coefficient (W/m·K)	≤0.022	≤0.020	≤0.030
Tension Strength (MPa)	≥0.15	≥0.25	≥0.10
Temperature resistance range (℃)	-50~+80	-60~+100	-20~+50
Service life (years)	>10	>15	>5
Cost price (yuan/kg)	50~80	80~120	30~50

From the table above, it can be seen that there are obvious differences in performance indicators for products of different purposes. For example, although agricultural-specific catalysts have higher cost, they have stronger anti-aging capabilities and a wider temperature resistance range, which are very suitable for greenhouses in extreme climates; while domestic decor catalysts pay more attention to economy and comfort, which are suitable for general needs in daily life.

5. Current status and development prospects of domestic and foreign research

(I) Foreign research trends

In recent years, European and American countries have made many breakthroughs in the field of reactive foaming catalysts and their anti-aging technology. For example, DuPont, the United States, has developed a new catalyst based on nanosilver particles, which can not only significantly improve the antibacterial properties of foam plastics, but also effectively resist degradation caused by ultraviolet rays. In addition, the “Elastoflex E” series products launched by BASF Group in Germany quickly occupied the global market with its excellent mechanical properties and environmental protection characteristics.

It is worth noting that as global climate change problems become increasingly serious, more and more research institutions are beginning to pay attention to how to use renewable resources to prepare catalysts. For example, a study from the University of Tokyo in Japan showed that by extracting natural fatty acids from vegetable oil and converting them into efficient foaming additives, the use of traditional petroleum-based chemicals can be greatly reduced while maintaining good catalytic effects.

(II) Domestic development

my country’s research in this field started relatively late, but has made rapid progress in recent years. The team of the Department of Chemical Engineering of Tsinghua University successfully developed a high-performance catalyst based on rare earth elements. Its unique electronic structure allows it to effectively remove free radicals while promoting foaming reactions, thereby extending the service life of the foam. At the same time, the Ningbo Institute of Materials, Chinese Academy of Sciences, focuses on the research and development of functional coatings, and has achieved excellent waterproofing and self-cleaning effects by coating a superhydrophobic nanofilm on the surface of the foam.

Nevertheless, compared with the international leading level, there is still a certain gap in basic theoretical research, high-end equipment manufacturing, and industrial promotion. In the future, we need to further strengthen interdisciplinary cooperation, increase investment in R&D, and strive to catch up with the forefront of the world.

(III) Development trend prospect

Looking forward, the development of reactive foaming catalysts and long-term anti-aging technologies will show the following trends:

Intelligent Direction: With the help of emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things and big data, precise control and real-time monitoring of catalyst usage can be achieved, and production processes will be further optimized.
Green Transformation: Increase investment in R&D in bio-based and biodegradable materials, gradually replace traditional toxic and harmful substances, and promote the industry to move towards sustainable development.
Multi-function integration: In addition to basic insulation functions, it will also integrate more fireproof, sound insulation, antibacterial and other functions to meet diversified market needs.

It can be predicted that with the continuous advancement of technology, reactive foaming catalysts will show broader application prospects in smart agriculture and many other fields.

6. Conclusion: Give agriculture the wings of technology

Reactive foaming catalysis of thermal insulation layer in smart agricultural greenhouseThe long-term anti-aging technology of agents is undoubtedly a major innovation in the history of modern agricultural development. It not only solves the problems of easy aging and poor performance of traditional insulation materials, but also injects new vitality into agricultural production. As an old proverb says: “It is better to teach people how to fish than to teach people how to fish.” This technology is like a golden key given to farmers, helping them to gain full hope in the cold winter.

Of course, no technology is perfect. We look forward to more scientists, engineers and entrepreneurs joining in and overcoming difficulties together so that this bizarre of scientific and technological innovation will bloom more colorfully. After all, only when agriculture has the wings of technology can our dining table become richer and life become better!

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