Polyurethane foams (PUFs) constitute a major class of polymeric materials, widely appreciated for their excellent mechanical strength, chemical resistance, and physical versatility. They are used in a wide variety of applications, such as insulation, cushioning, coatings, and structural parts. Traditionally, PUFs are prepared through polyaddition reactions involving polyols, diisocyanates, and water, where the in-situ generated CO₂ in the reaction mixture serves as the blowing agent. However, there are significant concerns with the use of isocyanates as they are toxic, classified respiratory sensitizers, and contribute to environmental pollution. These issues have directed both researchers and industry experts to search for safer and more sustainable alternative feedstocks.
The polyaddition reaction between cyclic carbonates (CCs) and polyfunctional amines has been one promising alternative. The reaction leads to the formation of non-isocyanate polyurethanes (NIPUs), specifically polyhydroxyurethane foams (PHUFs). Foaming is achieved by using external chemical blowing agents or through self-blowing reactions, where gases are generated directly in the system. The generated   foam cells – the structures that give foams their unique properties – depends largely on the gas-forming reactions.
This review focuses on the different blowing agents used in NIPUF synthesis, such as poly(methylhydrogensiloxane) (PHMS) and liquid fluorohydrocarbons. It also looks at recent advances in self-blowing techniques, which eliminate the need for external agents and make the process more sustainable. Special emphasis is placed on NIPUFs derived from renewable feedstocks, as these align with global trend towards green chemistry and circular materials. The review provides an overview of both externally blown and self-blown biobased NIPUFs, detailing their synthesis, performance, and potential industrial applications.

Keywords: biobased polyurethane, blowing agent, non-isocyanate polyurethane, polymeric foams, polyurethane foams, self-blowing