Development of Next-Generation Fluorine-Free Polyurethane Foams for Cryogenic Thermal Insulation

Applicant profile

We are looking for a highly motivated researcher holding a PhD in Chemistry and/or Polymer Physical Chemistry. Prior experience with polyurethane foams will be considered a strong advantage. Additional expertise in the thermodynamics of blowing agents and/or hands-on experience with industrial processing techniques (e.g., high-pressure foaming equipment, spraying) will also be valuable assets. The successful candidate will demonstrate scientific rigor, autonomy, and initiative, along with a strong interest in experimental research and collaborative work in an academic–industrial environment.

Project summary

Polyurethane (PU) foams expanded with fluorinated gases have long been valued for their unique combination of low weight, controlled cellular structure, and excellent thermal insulation performance. These features make them indispensable materials for applications ranging from building insulation to demanding industrial environments, particularly under cryogenic conditions. They are widely used in the insulation of liquefied gas tanks (methane, hydrogen, oxygen), playing a crucial role in the energy and transport sectors.

However, fluorinated blowing agents present significant environmental challenges, particularly due to their high global warming potential. As members of the per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) family, they are now subject to strict European regulations, threatening their use in the near future.

In this context, the development of fluorine-free alternative PU foams is a priority. The challenge is to design new formulations that preserve the key advantages of current cryogenic PU foams, such as controlled cellular structure, dimensional stability, and robust thermomechanical performance at very low temperatures, while remaining compatible with established industrial processing methods (casting, spraying, high-pressure foaming machines, etc.).

The postdoctoral researcher will focus on developing novel polyurethane foams tailored for cryogenic insulation using non-fluorinated blowing agents. These agents have distinct physicochemical properties (e.g., boiling point, polarity) that strongly affect foam formation and processing.

The research will aim to: (i) establish clear relationships between blowing agent properties and the resulting foam characteristics (cell morphology, thermomechanical performance, substrate adhesion, etc.). (ii) evaluate the performance of new formulations at the laboratory scale under conditions simulating industrial processes (spraying, casting, high-pressure foaming).

This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to sustainable materials innovation within a collaborative academic–industrial framework. It is part of a collaboration between the LCPO and the companies ArianeGroup and GTT, providing a stimulating scientific environment at the interface of academic research and industrial innovation. The project is carried out within the framework of an ANR Industrial Chair: Project SPACE-MAT (Sustainable Polymers for Advanced Materials in Aerospace and Transport).