Re: [Paddlewise] blowing foam

From: Kevin Whilden <kevin_at_yourplanetearth.org>
Date: Tue, 10 Apr 2001 15:23:50 -0700
From: "Joe Pylka" <pylka_at_castle.net>
<snip> Is the one you're using a closed cell formulation?

Yes, it is closed-cell.

>From Dave Kruger,
>1. One of the components of these polyurethane foams is a possible
sensitizer
>for some folks, and skin contact is a definite no-no.  Not an issue for
most.

Actually, the label on the can says it has a cyanide component and highly
recommends avoiding skin contact and using it in a ventilated area. (yikes)

>2. On _long_, persistent submersion, PU foam breaks down (takes many
>weeks/months, IIRC), so that this stuff is a compromised material for
flotation
>in boats.  Probably not an issue for the use here.

Like I said, I have seen this foam installed on boats several years ago, and
the foam is still good. Of course these boats are not constantly submerged.

>From Evan Dallas,
>Any idea of how that foam insulation that comes in an aerosol can would
work for >this?

Terrible. Even if this stuff had decent physical properties (as Dave K. says
otherwise), it would be very difficult to get it to fit properly. One the
critical elements of my method is that it takes 1-2 minutes for the foam to
start blowing once it is mixed. This gives you time to get inside your kayak
and position the bag in the right spot.

I've got digital photos of my last attempt at foaming a boat. Perhaps I'll
have time to put them on a web page by this weekend. That is if anyone is
interested.... :)

Also, does anyone remember a story from many years ago (may have been on
Wavelength) of someone trying to fill their boat with this foam for
flotation, but they miscalculated the amount and it filled their, burst the
seams, and started covering the living room carpet. I would love to hear
that story again :)

Kevin

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Received on Tue Apr 10 2001 - 15:14:54 PDT

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