Málama Composites

the difference is a natural Polyol

Our products utilize polyols derived from soy, castor and other domestically grown plants. The manufacturing process generates no water pollution or toxic air emissions. In fact, every pound of AinaCore^® sequesters 2.6 pounds of carbon.

Compare the manufacturing process for TRADITIONAL foam vs. AINACORE bio-foam:

Traditional Polyurethanes

Polyurethanes (commonly abbreviated PU or PUR) are a group of polymers formed by the reaction of di-isocyanates, which contain repeating urethane groups, hydroxyl compounds (polyols), and blowing agents. The high reactivity of isocyanates, knowledge of their catalytic reactions, and the addition of various additives enable the formulation of materials with a wide range of structural and performance characteristics. These properties can range from soft but very tough PUR elastomers to very hard, abrasion-resistant materials. PUR foams can be rigid or flexible, and can take the form of fiber for clothing, rubber for shoes or skateboard wheels, protective coatings for wood or metal, rigid structural panels, or flexible foams used in mattresses and cushions.

Traditionally, PUR foams utilize toluene di-isocyanates (TDI) for the A-side of the formulation. This petrochemical is a highly toxic organic compound with serious health risks to humans and other living organisms. Repeated exposure to TDI in the course of polyurethane foam production has been known to cause respiratory ailments and is a suspected carcinogen. The traditional B-side polyols are derived from petroleum, a non-renewable resource and contributor to green house gas emissions. Producing these types of foams releases volatile organic compounds into the atmosphere. The final products are difficult to reuse or recycle.

AinaCore^® Bio-Foams

Málama's bio-based foams compete directly with petrochemical-based rigid polyurethane foams. Our products utilize stable, far less toxic methylene-based isocyanate (MDI) for the A-side, and polyols derived from plant-based renewable sources such as soy, castor, jatropha or even algae for the B-side. Water is our blowing agent. The resulting foams are dimensionally stable, do not off-gas during manufacturing or after inclusion in final products, and can be easily recycled. The Company is fortunate to be entering the market with competitive environmental products just as a number of industries are attempting to green their supply chains and improve their own environmental performance.

Málama currently produces 4' x 8' panels in thicknesses ranging from ½" to 8". AinaCore® panels are currently available in 5 pound and 2.5 pound densities (pounds per cubic foot). Independent tests confirmed AinaCore's high bending, sheer and impact strength, resulting in final products that perform better and last longer. Their consistent density and tight, uniform cellular structure machines accurately and surfaces beautifully. AinaCore's high moisture resistance and dimensional stability assures greater product longevity and lower maintenance costs. High R value and heat resistance makes the product ideal for the insulation of homes and buildings, as well as for and mobile and stationary refrigeration units, and advanced packaging applications.