Product profile: Polyether polyols

Polyether polyols' major use is in polyurethane foams. Flexible foams are primarily used in

cushioning applications such as furniture, bedding and car seats, and in carpet underlay.

Rigid foam's largest consumer is the construction industry where it is mostly used for insulation.

Rigid foam is also used in commercial refrigeration and packaging. Smaller uses for polyether

polyols include elastomers, adhesives and sealants, surface coatings and polyurethane fibres.

Product Specifications:  PGY3010E

Polyether Polyol More Models For Choice :

Technology

Polyether polyols are produced by the catalysed addition of epoxides, mainly propylene oxide orethylene oxide,to an initiator having active hydrogens. The most common catalyst is potassium

hydroxide.The reaction is carried out by a discontinuous batch process at raised temperatures and

pressures under an inert atmosphere. After polymerisation, the catalyst is neutralised and removed

by filtration. The polyol is then purified.

The choice of epoxides, initiator, reaction conditions and catalyst determines the physical properties

of the polyol which can range from low molecular weight polyglycols to high molecular weight resins.

Bayer's Impact technology is based on a zinc hexacyanocobaltate catalyst and has lower energy

needs and waste.

Outlook

Demand growth in western Europe is forecast at 2.5-3%/year through 2006, slower than in previous

years.Growth in flexible foam will only be about 1.5%/year as the major markets like furniture and bedding

will bestagnant or even decline, although the automotive sector will see further growth of about 2%/year.

Consumption into rigid foam is expected to grow by an average 4%/year to 2006. The non-foam sector

will see demand growth of 4.0-4.5%/year.

West European production will rise to over 1.6m tonne/year by 2006 to meet export demand from the

faster-growing markets of eastern Europe, Africa and the Middle East.

Growth in Asia is put at 3-5%/year (excluding Japan) but the fastest growth is in China where demand

will rise by 7-9%/year. Shell's complex being built in Huizhou, China, includes a 170000 tonne/year

polyols plant with startup due in late 2005. Shell will also start up a 50000 tonne/year polymer polyols

plant in Pernis,Netherlands, this year.

Handling 

Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Avoid inhalation of vapour or mist. Keep away from sources of

ignition - No smoking. Take measures to prevent the build up of electrostatic charge. 

Storage 

Keep container tightly closed in a dry and well-ventilated place. Containers which are opened

must be carefully resealed and kept upright to prevent leakage. Store in cool place.