September brought a range of developments in the polyurethane sector, with a strong focus on sustainable innovation. From recycling initiatives to advanced coatings and industrial uses, polyurethane continues to demonstrate its versatility and value.
Spanish outlet Cinco Dias reported on a Spanish company which develops technology that can recycle the polyurethane material used in mattresses, to then use in new mattresses or thermal insulation. Similarly, La Vanguardia reported on the development of new sustainable and bio-based polyurethane adhesives to be used for packaging and footwear.
Several Nigerian outlets including This Day and New National Star have highlighted a new ozone-friendly polyurethane plant in Nigeria, facilitated by a collaboration of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Ministry of Environment.
International outlet Engineering News & Mining Weekly reported on the use of polyurethane in off-road mining tires in Zimbabwe. Instead of air, the tires have a solid polyurethane core that can be recycled, making the tires last longer, reducing waste, and cutting petrochemical use by up to 65%. This was also noted by U.S. New Atlas.
Sustainable Plastics delved into a new chemical upcycling technology for polyolefins, which modifies the polymer’s structure to convert waste polyethylene into thermoplastic polyurethane and other high-value products.
Moreover, international outlet PHYS.org reported on research developing a new environmentally-friendly polyurethane coating for the de-icing of aircraft and drones from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology. The permanent coating would replace temporary chemical de-icing agents, making ice removal more efficient and cheaper.
Finally, International outlets Nanowerk and Interesting Engineering reported on a study that developed a stretchy polyurethane-based gel that repairs itself and signals stress with color, with potential uses in soft wearable electronics, artificial skin and flexible biomedical devices.
