Feasibility assessment of Using Glycine max (Soybeans) as a Raw Material for the Manufacture of Mattress Foam.

Abstract

This chemical engineering research project aimed to investigate the feasibility of utilizing soybeans as a potential sustainable alternative to petrochemical-based polyol in mattress foam production. The study involved the extraction of oils from soybeans and their conversion into polyol, which was then incorporated into various mattress foam formulations.

The research process was executed in collaboration with Relax Mattress Foam Limited in Ntinda, who provided essential resources and expertise to achieve the project’s objectives. Despite encountering human errors during the practical phase and being the researcher’s first research endeavor, the results obtained were deemed fair, establishing the groundwork for future improvements and advancements in the field.

The experimental procedure involved multiple iterations of incorporating the soybean-derived polyol with other mattress-making raw materials, aiming to optimize the foam production process. Three separate trials were conducted, allowing for meticulous analysis and refinement of the formulation to attain the desired foam qualities.

Through this research, the potential of soybeans as a renewable and eco-friendly resource for polyol production was demonstrated. The study sheds light on the importance of sustainable materials in the mattress industry and the prospects of minimizing the reliance on petrochemical-based products.

The findings of this research open avenues for further exploration and optimization of soybean-based polyol production and application. The study advocates for refining experimental techniques to mitigate human errors and enhance result accuracy. Furthermore, the project underscores the significance of partnerships with industry players, fostering collaborative efforts for a more sustainable future.

In conclusion, this chemical engineering research project contributes valuable insights into the feasibility of soybeans as a raw material for mattress foam production, emphasizing the potential for a greener and more environmentally responsible approach to the mattress manufacturing sector.