Semi-rigid composites of polyurethane foams (SRPUF) modified with the addition of keratin flour from poultry feathers and flame retardant additives were manufactured. Ten percent by mass of keratin fibers was added to the foams as well as halogen-free flame retardant additives such as Fyrol PNX, expandable graphite, metal oxides, in amounts such that their total mass did not exceed 15%. Thermal and mechanical properties were tested. Water absorption, dimensional stability, apparent density and flammability of produced foams were determined. It was found that the use of keratin fibers and flame retardant additives changes the foam synthesis process, changes their structure and properties as well as their combustion process. The addition of the filler made of keratin fibers significantly limits the amount of smoke generated during foam burning. The most favorable reduction of heat and smoke release rate was observed for foams with the addition of 10% keratin fibers and 10% expandable graphite. Systems of reducing combustibility of polyurethane foams using keratin fillers are a new solution on a global scale.

In the present work, sustainable rigid polyurethane foams (RPUF) reinforced with chicken feathers (CF) were prepared and characterized. The bio-based polyol used to formulate the foams was obtained from castor oil. This investigation reports the influence of the chicken feathers fibers as reinforcement of RPUF, on water absorption, thermal, mechanical and morphological properties (field-emission scanning electron microscope—FESEM) and thermal conductivity on water-blown biofoams. It was found that the biofoams improved thermal insulating properties when CF was added. The addition of CF to foams provided lower heat flux density to the biofoams obtaining bio-based materials with better insulation properties. The results obtained in this study proved that the incorporation of CF to RPUF modified the cell structure of the foams affecting their physical and mechanical properties, as well as functional properties such as the heat transmission factor. These biofoams containing up to 45% of bio-based materials have shown the potential to replace fully petroleum-based foams in thermal insulation applications.

Viscoelastic polyurethane (VEPUR) foams with increased thermal resistance are presented in this article. VEPUR foams were manufactured with the use of various types of flame retardant additives and keratin fibers. The structure of the modified foams was determined by spectrophotometric-(FTIR), thermal-(DSC), and thermogravimetric (TGA) analyses as well as by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). We also assessed the fire resistance, hardness, and comfort coefficient (SAG factor). It was found that the use of keratin filler and flame retardant additives changed the foams’ structure and properties as well as their burning behavior. The highest fire resistance was achieved for foams containing keratin and expanding graphite, for which the reduction in heat release rate (HRR) compared to VEPUR foams reached 75%.

This publication underscores the vital role of bees, particularly their contribution to products like honey, pollen, and propolis, which offer significant health benefits. Notably, 79% of the world’s food supply relies on bees; thus, their declining numbers pose a threat to pollination and food security. The study explores an ecological thermal insulation for hives using animal biomass and a monitoring system to detect anomalies in bee habitats early. This approach aims to protect bee populations and enhance global food security through improved data-driven practices.