Different catalysts for new polyols for rigid PUR-PIR foams

New polyols were synthesized with 2-hydroxypropane-1.2.3-tricarboxylic acid and butane-1,4-diol (1.4-BD). The synthesis was performed using different catalysts in the amount of 0.1%. Used catalyst: Tyzor TPT, tin(II) acetate, sulfuric(IV) acid. The fourth reaction was conducted without the use of a catalyst. The polyols’ properties were evaluated with regards to the usefulness in rigid polyurethane-polyisocyanurate (PUR-PIR) foams (acid value, density, pH and solubility, FTIR spectra). Based on the research, it was evaluated that only the polyol synthesized using Tyzor TPT (E6) was useful in production of rigid PUR-PIR foams. Its hydroxyl number was 496 mgKOH/g and its viscosity was about 14 552 mPa · s. A series of five foams P6.1–P6.5 was produced with this polyol. Rigid foams test results indicated that the amount of this compound in the foam substantially affects its compressive strength, density and their retention. The foams have low brittleness values.