Econic Launches Carbon-Captured Polyols for Polyurethane Dispersions

Econic Technologies, a deep-tech company specialising in renewable carbon solutions, has introduced an innovative polyol technology for high-performance polyurethane dispersions (PUDs) that utilise captured CO₂ as a raw material. By adopting PUDs based on Econic’s renewable carbon technology, paint and coatings manufacturers can improve product performance, strengthen sustainability credentials, and reduce supply chain risks associated with conventional hydrocarbon-based feedstocks.

Known as polycarbonate ether (PCE) polyols, this innovative technology delivers excellent substrate adhesion, durability, and resistance to environmental stresses such as UV exposure and moisture, matching or exceeding the performance of conventional alternatives. PCE polyols can be used as a direct substitute for polyether polyols, polytetramethylene glycol (PTMEG), and polycarbonate glycol (PC). In addition to being colourless and odourless, they enable formulators to precisely tailor material properties by adjusting the level of captured CO₂ that is incorporated into the molecular structure.

Developed to help companies achieve their Scope 3 emissions reduction goals, PCE polyols offer a carbon footprint that is up to 30% lower than that of conventional polyols. They can be used independently or blended with recycled and bio-based polyols, enabling the development of low-carbon and potentially fossil-free polyurethane formulations.

“PCE polyols go beyond sustainability. We’re setting a new standard of performance. With our technology, coatings companies can deliver an even better customer experience that just happens to have a lower carbon footprint. On top of that, carbon dioxide is abundant and affordable, giving manufacturers a way to hedge their supply chains against the kind of volatility the industry has weathered before and will again,” said Econic’s CEO Keith Wiggins 

Econic licenses its renewable carbon technology to polyol manufacturers across the United States and Asia, including Monument Chemical and Changhua Chemical. These partners are currently producing PCE polyols suitable for high-performance polyurethane dispersion (PUD) applications. In addition, Econic is advancing the development of Recreaire, a platform technology focused on producing surfactants derived from captured CO₂.

Source: Econic Technologies