The new synthesis method is highly versatile in application: only few modifications are required to convert existing polyol production facilities, and it works with all types of vegetable oil. In other words, oils from plants native to a specific region are suitable for polyol production, and the raw materials need not be transported over long distances.

As Dr. Lorenz reports in his UTECH paper, Bayer researchers in Germany have tested polyurethane rigid foams derived from NOPs for refrigerators to determine their physical, processing and insulating properties. "The results show that the demolding characteristics of NOP-based foams are just as excellent as those of conventional state-of-the-art systems," Dr. Lorenz states. "They also are on par with conventional foams when it comes to mechanical loading and thermal insulation properties." For example, they easily meet the strict requirements of energy efficiency class A+. In some cases, the use of NOPs in polyol blends even offers advantages in performance: it increases the solubility of the blowing agent and allows more flexibility in formulating the foams.

Researchers at Bayer MaterialScience in the United States have manufactured and tested NOPs for polyisocyanurate (PIR) rigid foams. PIR foams for laminated boardstock, for instance, are very cost-effective as thermal building insulation. The Bayer specialists have developed one product for market introduction and are selling it in the NAFTA region under the name Multranol® 8160. It is one component in a rigid foam system used in the new Eco-Max® product line from Rmax, a US manufacturer of PIR thermal insulation materials.

"With Multranol® 8160, we can formulate PIR rigid foams classified as 'bio-based' according to the criteria of the United States Department of Agriculture. And with these foams, no compromises have to be made when it comes to essential properties," Mr. Lorenz says. Under a regulation issued by the US government, based on USDA recommendations, government agencies are to give preference to bio-based products over those made from petrochemical raw materials when purchasing supplies. Rigid foam for thermal building insulation is being regarded as bio-based if the percentage of carbon from renewable resources is equal to or exceeds seven percent.

About Bayer MaterialScience:
With 2008 sales of EUR 9.7 billion, Bayer MaterialScience is among the world’s largest polymer companies. Business activities are focused on the manufacture of high-tech polymer materials and the development of innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life. The main segments served are the automotive, electrical and electronics, construction and the sports and leisure industries. At the end of 2008, Bayer MaterialScience had 30 production sites and employed approximately 15,100 people around the globe. Bayer MaterialScience is a Bayer Group company.


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