Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI) is an important chemical used in the production of polyurethane-based construction foam, which is used for insulation, sealing, and filling gaps in buildings. However, MDI is also a hazardous chemical that can cause respiratory problems and allergic reactions in people who are exposed to it.
During the production process, the MDI chemically reacts with polyols and other ingredients to form polyurethane foam. This process is called polymerization, and it involves the formation of long chains of molecules. The final product of the reaction is the rigid foam used in construction as a popular insulation material. If the foam did not cure properly, you may have residual free MDI in the foam which is slowly released into the air of your house and can cause significant health effects.
LCS Laboratory Inc offers laboratory testing of cured construction foam for residual, unreacted MDI. During the test, we extract MDI from the foam and analyze the isocyanate concentration using High-Performance Liquid Chromatograph (HPLC). Our report will clearly present the concentration of toxic MDI in your foam insulation.
What does the report tell you about your insulation?
- 0-1000 mg of MDI per kg of foam (0-0.1%). This concentration is likely safe. There is little chance of being exposed. Many industrial materials have MDI concentrations below 0.1% and the manufacturers do not report such products as toxic.
- 1000 – 10,000 mg of MDI per kg of foam (0.1-1.0%). At this concentration, the manufacturer must notify you that you can be exposed to MDI. There is a chance that MDI vapor evaporates into your house.
- 10,000 – 100,000 mg of MDI per kg of foam (1-10%). This is a really high concentration. The foam was not cured properly. There is a high probability that you have been exposed to excessive concentration of MDI
If you believe that your construction foam or foam insulation was not cured properly, our lab can test it. To submit the sample(s) please download a “Material Testing” request form. Specify on the form that you are looking for “MDI analysis” and ship the form and the samples to our lab in London Ontario.
Please email us if you have any questions.
