First thermoplastic polyurethane based on CO2

One of the world’s largest polymer companies, Covestro developed a series of thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU) containing polyether carbonate polyols based on CO2 technology.

According to the company, the new TPU products leave a lower carbon footprint than compared conventional TPU materials. The first plastic in the series is designed for extrusion, but is also suitable for injection moulding.

Covestro plans to expand the new TPU series with variants of different hardness. They cooperate closely with companies and research institutions to use CO2 technology as a synthesis platform for other large-scale chemical raw materials.

Work is underway on new CO2-based polyols for rigid polyurethane foams that could be used, for example, in the thermal insulation of buildings, in automobiles and in sports equipment. Covestro already operates a production plant that produces CO2-based polyols for flexible polyurethane foams. The latter are used in the commercial production of upholstered furniture and mattresses.

Photo: Luigi Chiesa