Synthesis and characterization of antibacterial and low‐temperature resistant slow rebound polyurethane foams

Abstract Slow rebound polyurethane foam (SPUF) has been widely used due to its advantages such as sound insulation, energy absorption, and good tactile sensation. However, SPUF is prone to harden at low temperature, and its application in medical equipment and households requires significant antibacterial properties. In this paper, self‐made silicone modified polyethylene glycol (Si‐APEG) and graphene oxide supported allicin (Alc@GO) were prepared and used as low‐temperature resistant agent and antibacterial agent, respectively. Low‐temperature resistant polyurethane foam (LSPUF) and antibacterial LSPUF (ALSPUF) were prepared respectively with water as foaming agent. The morphology of ALSPUF was observed by scanning electron microscope. Properties studied include apparent core density and porosity, mechanical properties including tensile strength, 40% compressive hardness, and rebound resilience, as well as low‐temperature resistance. Effects of Si‐APEG content on the structures and properties were analyzed and the LSPUF with an Si‐APEG content of 10 wt.% showed the best comprehensive performance. Therefore, ALSPUFs with Si‐APEG content of 10 wt.% and Alc@GO content of 0–3 wt.% were prepared. The addition of Alc@GO increased the antibacterial ratio significantly without obvious effect on the structure and mechanical properties of LSPUF. The antibacterial ratio of ALSPUF reached 99.07% at a Alc@GO content of 2.5 wt.% and testing time of 60 min. This work provides an effective and feasible method for the preparation of ALSPUF which can be widely used in medical devices and households. Highlights Silicone modified polyether is a suitable low‐temperature resistant agent for PU foam. Allicin supported on GO provides good antibacterial property for PU foam. ALSPUF has better mechanical properties than SPU.