Abstract: The present invention provides rigid foams made from aromatic polyester polyols and polyisocyanates. The foams are isocyanate-based foams and are preferably prepared without cell nucleating agents, and are formed from a mixture containing an aromatic polyester polyol, a polyisocyanate, and a blowing agent that includes water. The foams have a high closed cell content with cells having diameters of about 160 microns or less, high thermal resistance, and flame retardancy.

Abstract: Rigid urethane foams made from polyester polyols and processes for producing them are provided. The foams are made by reacting a mixture that comprises an aromatic polyester polyol having an average functionality of about 3.0 or less, a hydroxyl number above 100 mg/KOH/g, and an average molecular weight less than 3000; from about 1 weight percent to about 30 weight percent of a saccharide; a blowing agent; and an isocyanate, and said foams having an isocyanate index from about 0.8 to about 3.0. The foams have a high closed cell content and a high free rise compressive strength and slightly lower thermal resistance than expected for their density.

Abstract: Aromatic polyester polyols, and foams produced therefrom, having an acid number below 3.0 mg/KOH/g, wherein the aromatic polyester polyol is the reaction product of a reaction mixture comprising an acid component, a glycol component, and a urethane catalytic activity agent comprising at least one of a non-alkoxylated aminoalcohol and a metal esterification catalyst.