Discarded polyurethane foam boxes and car seats, once primary contributors to white pollution, are now being precisely broken down by “molecular scissors” developed by Chinese scientists. A research team from the Chinese Academy of Sciences recently unraveled the molecular mechanism of enzymes for degrading polyurethane in nature. Through structural optimization, they created mutated enzyme formulations that increase the efficiency of traditional biodegradation by more than tenfold. These bio enzymes “gnaw” on plastics under mild conditions and reduce them back to recyclable monomers, providing a low-energy sustainable option for managing white pollution.
The fields of building insulation and cold chain logistics are also witnessing the emergence of a disruptive technology. The supercritical CO₂-assisted polyurethane spraying foam technology recently showcased at UNIDO’s OEWG side event has drawn global attention. This technology harnesses the unique physical properties of carbon dioxide at its critical state to replace traditional fluorinated blowing agents, overcoming industrial setbacks such as ozone depletion, high greenhouse effects, and limitations in low-temperature construction. Its foam performance surpasses that of conventional water-based foam products and enables scaled application in segments such as cold chain shipping and exterior walls.
The sealing performance of insulated glass directly determines thermal insulation and soundproofing effects of doors and windows. Breakthroughs in polyurethane adhesives are rewriting industry rules. A two-component polyurethane sealant, developed in China and based on innovative formulation design, achieves a dual leap in adhesion strength and weather resistance. It is compatible with various substrates and significantly reduces costs, successfully breaking foreign monopolies and providing crucial support for the next-generation energy-efficient doors and windows.
Lightweighting and safety demands in the NEV industry have spawned an innovative polyurethane adhesive solution. Through molecular design, this adhesive could have both high adhesion strength and tensile toughness, demonstrating superior performance in battery packaging and electronics potting. It can be used in complex structures due to its excellent flow properties and the inclusion of bio-based materials helps improve environmental friendliness.
Polyurethane is also driving the comfort revolution in sneakers. The shortcomings of traditional flexible foams in cushioning performance are being overcome. A new viscoelastic foam material with excellent shock-absorbing properties and multiple functions such as antibacterial, deodorizing effects, and negative ion release, imparts sneakers with longer-lasting hygiene and comfort, promoting material innovations in the footwear industry.
From bio enzymes that degrade plastics, to supercritical foaming technology for zero-carbon buildings, the two-component sealant that breaks foreign monopolies, a molecular adhesive in NEV batteries, and breathable sneakers, the molecular magic of polyurethane is quietly reshaping industrial boundaries. All innovations and breakthroughs that shake up industries will ultimately redefine our future.
