PU basically consists of two raw materials, resin and hardener, which are obtained from crude oil. Mixing the two process-ready, fluid-system components - which contain various auxiliary materials such as catalysts, foaming agents or stabilisers - gives rise to a reactive compound. Depending on the formula and proportions of the mix, the properties of the polyurethane produced can be precisely regulated - hard, soft, integral, cellular (foamed) or compact.
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Competence in polyurethane
BASF Polyurethanes is one of the leaders in the field of the speciality plastic material polyurethane, PU for short. For more than 40 years the BASF subsidiary has been operating highly successfully in the market. As a result it has developed from a creative small business to a Europe-wide operating market and innovation leader for PU specialties. The head office at Lemf–rde, Lower Saxony/Germany, hosts the Technology Centre for BASF polyurethanes worldwide. The BASF Polyurethanes U.K. Ltd product portfolio comprises high-quality PU basic products, PU systems and PU special elastomers.
In the field of special elastomers and PU systems BASF Polyurethanes is the market and technology leader worldwide.
The question of the environmental impact, health and safety
Insulation can reduce carbon dioxide emissions and help to combat climate change. Over its useful life PU insulation saves about 80 times more energy than was used to make it. It is manufactured without the use of ozone depleting gases, and once it has finished its work it can be mechanically recycled in some cases, or it can be used in energy recovery processes, further reducing our demand for fossil fuel energy. PU is safe and chemically inert. PU is not considered “dangerous” and no exposure limits have been established. The low breathability of PU does not cause condensation and mould in buildings. Air exchange via ventilation and air-leakage is much more important than breathability in controlling air-born moisture, surface condensation, mould growth, dust mites and consequent health problems.
PUR and fire
Most insulation is used behind a barrier such as plasterboard, bricks, blocks or roof decking, and is only a minor factor in fire. Its fire performance should always be looked at as part of the construction as a whole. Although it is classed as a combustible material, PU insulation does not smoulder, melt or drip when heated, and can actually help a building to resist the spread of fire. PU insulation systems exceed the fire safety regulations and insurance requirements for a wide range of applications.
Most insulation is used behind a barrier such as plasterboard, bricks, blocks or roof decking, and is only a minor factor in fire. Its fire performance should always be looked at as part of the construction as a whole. Although it is classed as a combustible material, PU insulation does not smoulder, melt or drip when heated, and can actually help a building to resist the spread of fire. PU insulation systems many times exceed the fire safety regulations and insurance requirements for a wide range of applications. WALLTITE has been specifically designed to meet UK Class 1 fire performance.
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