Covestro and Selena Group Partner to Develop Innovative Construction Chemicals
Selena Group uses a bio-attributed MDI from Covestro to produce its new Ultra Fast 70 one-component foam, which is used primarily in the installation of windows and doors. Photo courtesy of of Selena Group
Polish construction chemicals supplier Selena Group and plastics manufacturer Covestro have united their expertise to craft a more sustainable range of polyurethane foams for enhancing building thermal insulation. The strategic alliance is geared towards driving sustainable change in the construction industry and embodies the companies’ shared commitment to embrace a co-creative approach that should spearhead a transformative shift in the construction sector. The cooperation is in line with the principles of the European Green Deal, Fit for 55, and the overarching goal of achieving carbon neutrality in the building sector by 2050.
Selena Group is leading the way by introducing its enhanced Ultra Fast 70 one-component foam, primarily used for window and door installations. This product, with its yield of up to 77 liters per can and a very short cut time of just 20 minutes, is already recognized for its efficiency.
The innovation incorporates a bio-attributed methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) from Covestro in its production process. The sustainability aspect lies in the mathematical assignment of plant-based feedstocks to MDI through mass balancing, resulting in a 60% reduction in carbon footprint compared to fossil-derived counterparts.
Same Quality and Properties as Fossil-Based Counterparts
The pioneering collaboration highlights that sustainability doesn't necessitate compromises in quality. The new-generation foams, despite their bio-based content, boast the same good quality and properties as their fossil counterparts due to their identical molecular composition. This allows customers to seamlessly integrate them into their existing operations without any loss of quality. The sustainability of these products is validated by the globally recognized ISCC PLUS standard, certifying the use of plant-based raw materials and their precise allocation in the manufacturing process. The products retain their excellent quality, but at the same time meet the requirements of today's environmental protection and correspond to the trends of the future. This action is proof of the effectiveness of building cooperation through innovation.
Selena Offers Bio-based Polyols
Selena’s commitment to a sustainable future is also embodied in its line of BIOSELENOLS®, own-produced bio-based polyols that complement the company’s foams. The commitment extends to also including recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) as a formulation component for every foam variant. The company’s Environmental Product Declaration (EPD), verified by the German Institut Bauen und Umwelt e.V. (IBU), leverages life cycle analysis to assess the environmental impact of buildings and serves as a benchmark for Selena's environmental stewardship.
Covestro Focuses on Circular Economy and Climate Neutrality
Covestro is committed to a circular future, underscored by a focus on alternative raw materials, innovative recycling technologies, renewable energies, and strategic collaborations, and plans to achieve climate neutrality by 2035 (scope 1 and 2). The company is methodically expanding its portfolio of alternative products, extending invaluable support to its partners in their climate protection pursuits.
Their commitment to creating a circular and sustainable world is also tangibly demonstrated through the "CQ" concept – a testament to "Circular Intelligence". The "CQ" label on the mass-balanced MDI of the Desmodur® CQ grade utilized by Selena solidifies Covestro's dedication to alternative raw materials and their pivotal role in sustainable innovation. Covestro seeks to be a global leader in manufacturing high-quality polymer materials that significantly contribute to sectors such as mobility, construction, electronics, and more.
Learn more at www.covestro.com and www.selena.com.
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