DRIVING WITH POLYURETHANES

Polyurethanes in cars - SummaryPolyurethane is a highly versatile material that iscommonly used in the automobile industry because ofthe many economic and ecological benefits it provides:Efficiency: Polyurethanes can be tailor-made to meet theexact shape and size requirements, thereby reducing thegeneration of scrap material and lowering vehicle costs.Sustainability: Polyurethanes are often applied aslightweight foams which help reduce the weight of cars,thereby lowering fuel consumption and CO 2 emissions.As an industry, we are committed to optimisingrecycling within the boundaries set by the markets forrecyclates, and support the landfill reduction targets putforward by the European Commission.The European Isocyanate Producers Association(ISOPA) strongly supports the use of carefully controlledincineration to convert polyurethane waste intovaluable energy when local conditions favour it.To achieve this, we work to:Recyclability: At the end of their useful life, polyurethanescan be recycled and their energy recovered through arange of approved technologiesVersatility: Polyurethanes are an extremely versatilematerial which makes them ideal for a range ofapplications in cars, from foam seat fillings to bumpersand steering wheels.• increase the awareness of the ELV issue along thevalue chain and amongst other stakeholders• ensure there is an informed understanding ofpolyurethanes in the application of the ELV Directive• support those recovery options most favoured byecological, economic and logistic considerationswithin an integrated waste management strategytaking local specifics into accountSafety: The shock absorbing qualities and highresilience of polyurethane foams ensure the safety ofdrivers and passengers in cars, under static anddynamic conditions.PLASTICS DISTRIBUTION IN AN AVERAGE CARFuel tanks HDPE 8%Seat Foam PUR 10%1% Battery PPDashboards mixed materials 14%Bumpers & side mouldings PP 23%44% Othersource : APME - ‘Plastics - a material choice for the automotive industry’