IFS produces a wide range of two-component systems for foamed and solid elastomeric polyurethanes. In every case, the systems consist of an isocyanate plus a polyol resin. It is the blending of the latter which gives the finished product its desired performance characteristics.
Polyols exist in many forms, varying greatly in chain length, functionality, initiator type and alkylene-oxide type. IFS’s particular skill is in selecting the appropriate polyol for each application, and blending it with as many as ten further components - blowing agents, fire retardants, cell stabilisers, pigments, fillers and processing aids - to achieve the required specification and performance.
Traditionally, the industry has relied on petroleum-derived polyols. But in recent years there have been exciting developments in the use of vegetable oils, from sunflower, palm, coconut, cotton seed and rapeseed. These have the advantages of renewable sourcing, local availability, and far lower energy consumption in their conversion to polyols. And once again, IFS is at the forefront of product development. |
