Covestro develops sustainable cast elastomer solution for the offshore industry

Covestro offers a sustainable cast elastomer solution for the offshore wind power industry. It is based on a precursor of the cardyon® brand containing CO₂. The elastomers show the same good properties as petrochemical-based products. © Covestro
Covestro has developed a sustainable cast elastomer solution that enables the offshore industry to reduce its environmental impact and carbon footprint. The polyurethane elastomers are based on so-called cardyon® brand polyols, which contain CO2 and offer the same good performance as corresponding petrochemical-based elastomers. A new technology from Covestro makes it possible to produce these precursors from carbon dioxide in a proportion of up to 20 percent by weight, thereby replacing some of the fossil raw materials used up to now. The development contributes to recycling carbon and underlines Covestro’s intention to focus all its activities on the Circular Economy.

In its search for a more sustainable solution for the offshore industry, molding company Polarttech opted for a Desmodur® elastomer system containing cardyon® polyols. This cast polyurethane elastomer offers the following advantages:
The part produced with this system shows very good hydrolysis resistance, as expected from such an offshore application, and is more durable than other elastomers such as rubber.
The polyurethane system enables the production of elastomers with high-performance or even better mechanical properties such as tensile strength and tear resistance than corresponding conventional cast polyurethane systems made from fossil raw materials.
The solution offers the possibility to reduce the carbon footprint and dependence on fossil raw materials.