"One challenge is that many of the new technologies used to reduce VOC content are not able to provide equivalent film properties, such as hardness, water resistance and chemical resistance." Sun's presentation described his company's development of waterborne polyurethanes and PU copolymer dispersions, water dispersible isocyanurate chemistries and ultraviolet-cure PU chemistries that reduce VOC content while enhancing performance properties of PU coatings.

A wide range of new PU technologies was unveiled during the first CASE session, including a new family of additives that RheinChemie says extend the performance ranges of conventional polyester and polyurethane adhesives. Byk Chemie introduced new technology for improving the compatibility of polyols and chain extenders in CASE systems, and BASF described a porous paving system using post-consumer recycled glass and a two-component PU binder for use in storm water management applications. King Industries introduced a new class of tin-free organometallic catalysts that promote the crosslinking reaction of hydroxyl functional polymers with isocyanurate crosslinking agents in both solvent and waterborne formulations. The technologies from both BASF and King Industries are two of three finalists for the Innovation Award.

During the second CASE session, BASF described a new method for the prediction of hydrolysis rates of glass syntactic polyurethane in deep sea applications, and Reaxis Inc. explained how its new, water-soluble catalyst can improve waterborne polyurethane coating properties. Huntsman demonstrated the improved performance of its new MDI prepolymer for use in spray polyurea, and Chevron Phillips explained how its new hydroxyl-capped raw materials can expand the range of speciality applications for performance polyurethanes. UBE Chemical Europe, S.A., discussed the influence of soft segment polyol on properties and durability of polyurethane elastomers.

"The polyurethanes industry continues to provide a multitude of innovative solutions for improving the performance and durability of elastomers, coatings, adhesives and sealants," said American Chemistry Council's Steve Russell, Vice President, Plastics Division, "while also responding to customer demand for environmental solutions."