Sorption of organic dyes by polyurethane foam

The sorption of fifty-nine organic dyes, indicators and stains by polyester and polyether-type polyurethane foams was investigated by use of aqueous solutions and powdered foam material. Comparisons were made with sorption from 50% methanol solutions for some dyes and also with solvent extractions done with diethyl ether or ethyl acetate for several dyes. The R(f) values for the dyes run on cellulose TLC plates in water or a mixed solvent mobile phase were compared to the distribution coefficients with polyurethane foam. The relationship between the structure of the test substances and their sorption is discussed.