Repsol starts pilot-scale production CO2-based polycarbonate polyol
Repsol has opened a pilot plant at its Puertollano, Spain site for the production of sustainable polycarbonate polyols
The new pilot plant is part of a project aimed at developing an innovative and pioneering process for manufacturing a polycarbonate polyol, in which part of the fossil-based propylene oxide currently used is replaced by CO2. Use of this abundant and sustainable alternative raw material can reduce the environmental footprint, considerably cutting emissions of pollutants into the atmosphere, says the Spain-based energy company.
The new polyol joins a portfolio of polyols supplied by Repsol , which offer a wide range of alternatives to meet the specific needs of customers.
Repsol has worked together with selected customers who have manufactured products with this innovative polyol. Additional advantages of this new polycarbonate polyol are that, it enhances certain properties of different CASE applications. According to Repsol, the new polyol offers offer enhanced adherence and elasticity in adhesives and elastomers compared with conventional polyols. They also have specific properties, allowing them to be applied in other ways in the future.
Repsol has already started production of its polycarbonate polyol in the pilot plant located in Puertollano, Spain. The new polyol produced at this plant has a CO2 content of 20%.
According to Repsol, it is “a step forward for a more ambitious project at industrial scale” and with it, the company “reinforces its commitment to innovation, sustainability and contributing to a better environment”.
Source: Bioplastics MAGAZINE, 2017-02-24.