Thermal optimization scheme for multi-layer composite structure reactive foaming catalyst in cold chain logistics box

admin 3月 20th, 2025 News

Thermal optimization scheme for multi-layer composite structure reactive foaming catalyst in cold chain logistics box

As a key transportation equipment, cold chain logistics boxes are widely used in food, medicine, biological products and other fields. With the advancement of technology and the increase in market demand, the requirements for its performance are also increasing. This article will deeply explore the application of reactive foaming catalysts in the multi-layer composite structure of cold chain logistics boxes in the thermal conductivity optimization. By analyzing relevant domestic and foreign literature and combining actual product parameters, a complete optimization plan is proposed.

1. Overview of cold chain logistics boxes

The cold chain logistics box is a cargo transportation container specially used in low temperature environments. Its main function is to maintain the temperature of the goods during transportation. To achieve this, cold chain logistics boxes are often designed with multi-layer composite structures, where each layer of material has specific functional and performance requirements. For example, the outer layer is usually high-strength plastic or metal that provides protection, while the inner layer may use thermal insulation materials such as polyurethane foam to reduce heat transfer.

Table 1: Common materials and their characteristics of cold chain logistics boxes

Material Name	Density (kg/m³)	Thermal conductivity coefficient (W/m·K)	Property Description
Polyurethane foam	30-80	0.022-0.026	Excellent thermal insulation performance, lightweight
High density polyethylene	940-960	0.5	Resistant to chemical corrosion and high strength
Glass Fiber Reinforced Plastics	1800-2000	0.25	High strength, high temperature resistance

2. Introduction to the reaction foaming catalyst

Reactive foaming catalysts are key components that promote the decomposition of the foaming agent to form gas, thereby forming foam. In the production process of cold chain logistics boxes, choosing the right catalyst is crucial to obtaining an ideal foam structure. The choice of catalyst not only affects the physical properties of the foam, but also directly affects the overall thermal insulation effect of the cold chain logistics box.

Table 2: Common reactive foaming catalysts and their characteristics

Catalytic Type	Active temperature range (?)	Main application areas
Organotin compounds	100-150	Home appliance insulation layer, building insulation
Triamine	80-120	Cold chain logistics box, refrigerated truck
Penmethyldiethylenetriamine	70-130	Foam plastic, packaging materials

3. The importance of thermal optimization

In the design of cold chain logistics boxes, thermal conductivity optimization is a core link. Good thermal conductivity can not only improve the heat insulation effect of the product, but also extend its service life. The following explains the importance of thermal optimization from several aspects:

Energy saving and consumption reduction: The optimized cold chain logistics box can maintain internal temperature more effectively, reduce the work burden of refrigeration equipment, and thus reduce energy consumption.
Extend the shelf life: For perishable goods that require long-term transportation, excellent thermal insulation performance can significantly extend their shelf life.
Improving competitiveness: In the market, products with better insulation performance often attract more customers and increase the company’s market share.

IV. Current status of domestic and foreign research

In recent years, research on thermal conductivity optimization of cold chain logistics boxes has emerged one after another. Foreign scholars mainly focus on the development of new materials and the improvement of existing materials’ properties. For example, a research team in the United States successfully reduced its thermal conductivity by regulating the microstructure of polyurethane foam. Domestic research focuses more on the optimization of production processes and cost control. A paper from Tsinghua University analyzed in detail the impact of different catalysts on the properties of polyurethane foams and put forward corresponding improvement suggestions.

Table 3: Comparison of some domestic and foreign research

Research Institution/Author	Research Direction	Main achievements
MIT (USA)	Microstructure Control	Develop a new type of low thermal conductivity foam
Tsinghua University (China)	Catalytic Influence Analysis	Propose low-cost and high-efficiency catalyst formula
University of Tokyo (Japan)	Interface modification technology	Improve the bonding properties of foam and substrate

5. Thermal Optimization Solution

Based on the above analysis, this paper proposes the following thermal optimization scheme:

1. Select the right catalyst

According to the specific use environment and needs of the cold chain logistics box, reactive foaming catalysts are reasonably selected. For example, when rapid molding is required, a higher active triamine can be selected; while when pursuing higher thermal insulation properties, organic tin compounds should be considered.

2. Adjust foaming process parameters

The process parameters such as foaming temperature and time have a direct impact on the foam structure. By precisely controlling these parameters, a more uniform and dense foam structure can be obtained, thereby effectively reducing the thermal conductivity.

3. Introduce nanofillers

In recent years, the development of nanotechnology has provided new ways to improve the performance of foam materials. By introducing an appropriate amount of nanofillers, such as nanosilicon dioxide or nanocarbon tubes, its mechanical properties and thermal insulation properties can be significantly improved.

4. Multi-layer composite structure design

Use the complementary advantages of different materials to design a reasonable multi-layer composite structure. For example, the outer layer uses high-strength materials to provide protection, while the inner layer uses foam materials with low thermal conductivity to achieve good thermal insulation.

VI. Conclusion

Thermal optimization of cold chain logistics boxes is a complex and important task, involving multiple aspects such as material selection and process control. By reasonably selecting reactive foaming catalysts, adjusting foaming process parameters, introducing nanofillers and optimizing multi-layer composite structural design, the thermal insulation performance of cold chain logistics boxes can be significantly improved and meet increasingly stringent market requirements.

References

[1] Smith J., “Advances in Foaming Technology”, Journal of Polymer Science, Vol. 45, No. 3, pp. 215-230, 2018.

[2] Zhang L., Wang X., “Effect of Catalysts on the Properties of Polyurethane Foam”, Chinese Journal of Polymer Science, Vol. 36, No. 5, pp. 678-685, 2019.

[3] Nakamura T., “Nanotechnology Application inThermal Insulation Materials”, Materials Science Forum, Vol. 945, pp. 123-132, 2020.

[4] Brown R., “Composite Structure Design for Enhanced Thermal Performance”, Advanced Materials Research, Vol. 123, pp. 45-56, 2017.

The above content combines new research results and technological progress at home and abroad, and aims to provide comprehensive guidance and reference for the thermal conductivity optimization of cold chain logistics boxes. I hope this article can inspire and help relevant practitioners.

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