Dow Develops New Integral Skin System
Dow Introduces New SNAP Compliant Integral Skin Innovation
MIDLAND, Mich. – Aug. 3, 2016 – The Dow Chemical Company (NYSE: DOW) has launched a new
polyurethane integral skin foam that may lower global warming potential (GWP) by up to 99.9 percent
while sustaining the comfort level and durability of previous polyurethane systems. Dow’s ComfortScience
customized I-Skin solutions formulated with hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) are designed for North American
companies and brand owners impacted by the Significant New Alternatives Policy (SNAP), announced by
the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
“We realize that change isn’t easy and the EPA’s blowing agent regulation brings a unique set of technical
issues to the industry,” said Doug Todd, marketing director for Dow Polyurethanes. “Dow scientists thrive
on challenges like this. For years, we have put our innovation engine to work to develop low GWP
solutions and our experts are available to guide companies through smooth and seamless transitions to
bring more sustainable solutions to the marketplace.”
Performance Benefits
Dow’s polyurethane solutions, VORALUX for furniture and SPECFLEX for custom molding, deliver
improved mechanical and physical properties, including:
Lightweight, flexible and durable foam core, but soft to the touch exterior
Good flow and uniform density distribution of the foam
Excellent adhesion to a variety of substrates
Superior skinning properties
Abrasion and chemical resistance
Excellent mechanical properties of the foam resulting in outstanding dimensional stability
Extended shelf life of the fully formulated system with HFO
A curing profile that allows for very competitive de-mold times
Additives can be used for flame retardants, UV stability, color and anti-microbial needs
Integral skin foam is used in a number of market applications, including automotive interiors, furniture
components, office chairs, household leisure goods and wheelchairs.
The new Dow polyurethane integral skin foam system is ready for qualifications to fully comply with all
applicable regulations once they become law in January 2017.
