Step 1: Understanding thermal insulation materials.
Thermal insulation materials are used to reduce heat transfer. Effective insulating materials generally have low thermal conductivity and often contain trapped air or gas within their structure.
Step 2: Properties of polyurethane foam.
Polyurethane foam has a cellular structure with numerous closed cells filled with gas. This structure significantly reduces heat flow, making it an excellent thermal insulator widely used in buildings, refrigerators, and cold storage.
Step 3: Analysis of options.
(A) Melamine resin: Mainly used for heat-resistant laminates and tableware.
(B) Polyurethane foam: Correct — Highly effective due to its low thermal conductivity.
(C) Polyethylene: Not commonly used as a thermal insulating foam.
(D) Polystyrene: Used mainly for packaging and cushioning; less effective compared to PU foam in insulation.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Polyurethane foam is widely used for thermal insulation, hence option (B) is correct.