Blowing agents are substances that generate gas within a material, creating a cellular or porous structure. This process, called foaming, significantly impacts the material's properties, leading to reduced weight, improved insulation, and enhanced flexibility.   

Types of Blowing Agents

There are two primary categories of blowing agents:

1. Physical Blowing Agents

Definition: These are substances that exist in a liquid or gas state at room temperature and pressure. They vaporize when exposed to heat or reduced pressure during the foaming process.   

Examples:

Hydrocarbons: Pentane, isopentane, cyclopentane, and n-pentane.   

HFCs (Hydrofluorocarbons): Opteon™ 1150, Opteon™ 116, Opteon™ 1125.

CO2 (Carbon Dioxide)   

2. Chemical Blowing Agents

Definition: These are chemical compounds that decompose thermally, releasing gases like nitrogen, carbon dioxide, or ammonia.   

Examples:

Azodicarbonamide (ADC)   

Sodium Bicarbonate (Baking Soda)   

Calcium Carbonate   

Dichlorobenzoyl Peroxide