Econic launches PCE polyols from captured CO2 for polyurethane dispersions
- PCE (polycarbonate ether) polyols are direct replacements for polyether polyols, PTMEG and polycarbonate glycol (PC).
- The polyols offer strong adhesion, durability and UV/water resistance, and are colorless and odorless with tunable CO2 content.
- Econic says PCE polyols can lower carbon footprints by up to 30% versus standard polyols and support Scope 3 targets.
- Manufacturing partners Monument Chemical (US) and Changhua Chemical (China/Asia) are producing PCE polyols for use in polyurethane dispersions; Econic is also developing a CO2-based surfactant platform called Recreaire.
Product overview
Econic has introduced polycarbonate ether (PCE) polyols made using captured CO2 for use in high-performance polyurethane dispersions (PUDs). The PCE polyols are described as colorless and odorless and provide strong substrate adhesion, durability and resistance to environmental factors such as UV and water. Formulators can adjust performance by varying the amount of CO2 incorporated at the molecular level. These PCE polyols are positioned as direct replacements for polyether polyols, polytetramethylene glycols (PTMEG) and polycarbonate glycol (PC).
Carbon and formulation
The technology targets companies working on Scope 3 climate goals, with Econic reporting a carbon footprint up to 30% lower than standard polyols. PCE polyols can be used alone or blended with recycled and bio-based polyols to create formulations with reduced or fossil-free content.
Manufacturing and market deployment
Econic licenses the catalyst and process technology to polyols manufacturers; partners in the US and Asia, including Monument Chemical and Changhua Chemical, are currently producing PCE polyols suitable for PUDs. The company is also developing Recreaire, a platform for CO2‑based surfactants.
Application and supply-chain angle
Targeted primarily at paint and coatings brands using PUDs, the PCE polyols are presented as offering comparable or improved performance alongside a lower carbon footprint and a means to reduce exposure to hydrocarbon supply‑chain volatility.
Source: Econic Technologies
