Polyurethanes are used for protective purposes in a diversity of forms. Below, you can learn more about how they offer protection in our day-to-day lives.
Insulation
Polyurethane insulation helps to ensure increased energy efficiency in buildings, thus protecting the Earth’s valuable resources by reducing the need to burn oil and gas. It is estimated that wider application of existing technology based on rigid polyurethane foam across the EU would reduce overall CO2 emissions by 10% and enable the EU to meet its Kyoto commitments by 2010.
Refrigeration
Similarly to building insulation, insulation of refrigerators and freezers means that less electricity is needed for them operate effectively. In the ten years leading up to 2002, EU energy efficiency initiatives resulted in efficiency gains of 37%. Such substantial savings were only possible thanks to the unique properties of polyurethanes. Their use in the cold food chain also prevents food from perishing by maintaining cool environments.
Learn more about the use of polyurethanes in the cold food chain.