Development of lignocellulosic lightweight foams for cavity insulation in beverage coolers using cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) as a binder
Document Type
Poster
Date of Original Version
3-27-2026
Abstract
Conventional beverage coolers rely on expanded polystyrene (EPS) or polyurethane (PU) foams for thermal insulation. While effective, these materials pose significant environmental challenges due to their fossil-fuel dependency and lack of biodegradability. My research investigates the development of cavity-filling insulation foam from lignocellulosic materials and cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) through a foam forming method to replace petrochemical foam in beverage coolers. Initial investigations have revealed that it is possible to fabricate light weight foams from hybrid formulation of thermomechanical pulp (TMP) fibers and wood flour using CNF as a binder. This ongoing work aims to optimize formulation parameters and processing conditions to achieve low thermal conductivity, sufficient mechanical strength, and compatibility with cavity insulation requirements for cooler applications. The study demonstrates the potential of wood-derived materials as a promising pathway toward sustainable insulation foams for beverage and ice chest cooler applications, contributing to the reduction of fossil-based foam materials.
Recommended Citation
Tiamiyu, Quazeem and Tajvidi, Mehdi, "Development of lignocellulosic lightweight foams for cavity insulation in beverage coolers using cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) as a binder" (2026). Poster Presentations. Paper 9.
https://digitalcommons.uri.edu/gradcon2026-posters/9