Dow Chemical (Midland, Michigan) has introduced a new polyurethane integral skin foam that could lower global warming potential (GWP) by up to 99.9%, the company says.
The product would still sustain the comfort level and durability of previous polyurethane systems, according to Dow officials.
Integral skin foam consists of a lightweight, flexible foam core encased in a thick, outer “skin” created in a single molding process. It is used in many market applications, including automotive interiors, furniture components, office chairs, household leisure goods, and wheelchairs.
Dow says its ComfortScience customize d I-Skin solutions, formulated with hydrofluoroolefin (HFO), are designed for North American companies and brand owners impacted by the Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP) of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) (Washington, DC).
“We realize that change isn’t easy, and the EPA’s blowing agent regulation brings a unique set of technical issues to the industry,” says Doug Todd, marketing director for Dow’s polyurethanes business.
“Dow scientists thrive on challenges like this,” Todd adds. “For years, we have put our innovation engine to work and develop low GWP solutions, and our experts are available to guide companies through smooth and seamless transitions to bring more sustainable solutions to the marketplace.”
Dow’s polyurethane solutions include VORALUX for furniture and SPECFLEX for custom molding. The company says both deliver improved mechanical and physical properties, including a lightweight, flexible, and durable foam core—all with an exterior that remains soft to the touch.
Other attributes of the polyurethane solutions, according to Dow, include good flow and uniform density distribution of the foam, strong adhesion to a variety of substrates, superior skinning properties, abrasion and chemical resistance, excellent dimensional stability, an extended shelf life of the fully formulated system with HFO, a curing profile that allows for competitive de-mold times, and additives that can be used for flame retardants, ultraviolet stability, color, and anti-microbial needs.
Dow says its new polyurethane integral skin foam system is ready for qualifications to fully comply with all applicable regulations, once they become law in January 2017.