Ludwigshafen, Germany – BASF has cleaned up a polyether polyol to help automotive seat foamers meet stringent emission requirements.
BASF said that according to test methods specified in the VDA 276 and BMW GS 97014-3 standards the new, cleaner Lupranol grades, used with its systems will result in formulations that emit 20% less aldehyde than formulations made with conventional grades.
Earlier this year, the developments were introduced in Asia, where strict limits on aldehyde emissions are increasingly common. The products are being introduced into Europe in the summer. The new materials will be rolled out in the US later this year, BASF added.
The firm continued that the new grades are drop-in replacements for existing grades.
There is a global drive to reduce the emissions from polyurethane foams which are used in automotive seats, carpets, and steering wheels, among other components.
Currently, BASF said, the focus is on reducing formaldehyde, acetaldehyde and propionaldehyde, which, along with aromatic hydrocarbons help give vehicles the typical new-car smell.
