Covestro Press

Covestro drives circular economy forward with high-performance PU composites

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 09:30:00 +0100

Polyurethane (PU) composites are strong, lightweight, and efficient in production, making them ideal for various industrial applications. These technologies also offer many benefits for a sustainable circular economy, such as reducing carbon dioxide emissions and increasing product lifespans. Materials manufacturer Covestro, the inventor of PU technology, is committed to innovative and sustainable development in polyurethane composites.

Covestro will showcase various PU composite solutions at the 2023 China Composites EXPO Shenzhen, held from March 23-25 at Booth 1201 in Hall 2 at the Shenzhen Convention and Exhibition Center. These solutions, created in partnership with other companies, include pultruded profiles for windows and solar frames, rotor blade sections for wind turbines, top covers for new energy vehicle (NEV) battery packs, power distribution poles, and facade brackets. These products are made using a range of composite processes such as PU pultrusion, high-pressure resin transfer molding (HP-RTM), infusion, and filament winding.

Baydur^® Pultrusion window frame

The Baydur^® Pultrusion window frame is designed to reduce the energy consumption of buildings by providing exceptional heat insulation and mechanical properties. These frames are made of fiberglass reinforced polyurethane composites, with a waterborne polyurethane coating on the surface. Compared to conventional aluminum alloy or PVC windows, these composites have a smaller environmental impact and lower carbon emissions due to their superior insulation performance.

Baydur^® Pultrusion solar module frame

The Baydur^® Pultrusion solar module frame is a non-metal solution that combines a PU pultrusion composite with a PU waterborne coating. It has excellent mechanical properties and can resist strong chemical erosion, making it ideal for high humidity and high salt fog areas. Unlike aluminum alloy frames, Baydur^® frames don’t require grounding, and can improve energy generation efficiency of solar panels. It is a cost-effective solution for solar parks and Building Integrated Photovoltaic applications.

Baydur^® HP-RTM top cover for NEV battery packs

The Baydur^® HP-RTM top cover for NEV battery packs is a key application of PU in new energy vehicles. It is lightweight and can be as thin as 0.8mm, thus reducing total carbon emissions. The cover is also flame-retardant to ensure safe protection for vehicle batteries. Additionally, the HP-RTM process significantly improves manufacturing efficiency and reduces operational costs with its “one-drives-two” design, enabling one injection machine to service two press machines simultaneously.

Power distribution poles and telecommunication towers

Power distribution poles and telecommunication towers using Baydur^® and Desmocomp^® were developed to meet the needs of vast areas, regardless of the environment or terrain. These solutions are only one-eighth the weight of conventional concrete poles, generating substantially fewer CO₂ emissions during manufacturing and transport processes. They can also be effectively transported and installed even in difficult terrains. Furthermore, their inherent structural differences make them more resilient in extreme conditions such as typhoons, lightning storms, and corrosive environments, providing a stable lifespan of over 40 years with significantly lower maintenance costs over time.

Covestro also offers low-carbon versions of these polyurethane solutions containing alternative raw materials, such as mass-balanced polyurethanes certified by ISCC PLUS and partial bio-based products, to help customers along the value chain transition to a circular economy.

Covestro pushes forward with the digitalization of processes

Tue, 02 Jul 2019 00:00:00 +0200

Digitalization is one of the most important drivers of growth in the chemical and plastics industry. Covestro hopes to take advantage of resulting opportunities with a comprehensive strategic program. The central focus of the program is the goal of providing customers with added value and setting new standards in customer collaboration. To accomplish this, the company is incorporating digital technologies and processes into production, the supply chain, research & development, at all customer contact points and in new business model development.

A current emphasis of the new business models is the digitalization and optimization of process flows. By simulating process steps, development times at customers and along value chains can be reduced considerably, and process flows can be designed more efficiently. At the K 2019, for example, Covestro is presenting a new formula finder for viscoelastic foams, which are used primarily in pillows and mattresses – also in the medical and care field.

Calculating properties and formulas on the computer

“With an easy-to-use web-based calculation tool, customers can enter the desired physical properties of the foam and wait for the matching formulas to be calculated based on our raw materials,” explains Dr. Lutz Brassat, an expert for polyurethane flexible foam at Covestro. “It can also do the reverse and determine the properties of a finished foam for a predefined formula. In any case, it saves time and materials and also costs.” The company is also increasing the processing power in a research project and is investing in advanced hardware.

To develop the digital tool, an interdisciplinary team at Covestro first manufactured various viscoelastic foams with the aid of predefined formulas and identified their properties. Based on these data sets, the team then generated an algorithm, which uses the properties of these foams to calculate other foam densities, hardness levels and viscoelastic behaviors.

More comfort in bed

Viscoelastic foam provides a high level of comfort and is therefore enjoying increasing popularity among consumers. For older or bed-ridden patients, it effectively prevents dreaded bed sores. Under the influence of its own weight and heat, a body lying on the foam sinks slowly into it, but is also supported by it. A special feature of a viscoelastic foam is its shape memory: as soon as a person changes position or gets up, the foam slowly regains its original shape.

Comprehensive program for digitalization

Covestro bundles its global digitalization activities in the comprehensive program “Digital@Covestro,” which is based on three pillars. The first relies on digital operating processes in production. Its aim is to make the construction, operation and maintenance of global production facilities more efficient and transparent. This also includes evaluating real time data with the help of end devices, in order to optimize plant maintenance.

Another pillar of the digitalization strategy is a digital trading platform for chemicals, which was developed according to the needs of customers and is currently being tested. Here, customers can buy standard products efficiently online at current market prices. Since April 2018, Covestro has also been selling products via a flagship store on 1688.com. This online platform of the internet giant Alibaba is currently China's largest marketplace for business customers.

The third pillar involves new business models, primarily digital technical services. They are important for developing efficient production processes at customers and, above all, for digitalizing entire value chains. Covestro offers a comprehensive range of services here, which extends from chemical synthesis, to developing formulas, to processing and the subsequent handling of plastic products.

About Covestro:

With 2018 sales of EUR 14.6 billion, Covestro is among the world’s largest polymer companies. Business activities are focused on the manufacture of high-tech polymer materials and the development of innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life. The main segments served are the automotive, construction, wood processing and furniture, and electrical and electronics industries. Other sectors include sports and leisure, cosmetics, health and the chemical industry itself. Covestro has 30 production sites worldwide and employs approximately 16,800 people (calculated as full-time equivalents) at the end of 2018.

Find more information at www.covestro.com.
Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/covestro

Forward-looking statements

This news release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Covestro AG. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors include those discussed in Covestro’s public reports which are available at www.covestro.com. The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conform them to future events or developments.

Covestro receives Sustainability Award from Henkel

Wed, 07 Nov 2018 00:00:00 +0100

For the third time, Covestro received a Sustainability Award from Henkel Adhesive Technologies. With this prize, the adhesive manufacturer acknowledges its supplier's ongoing commitment to a sustainable product and process pipeline. Particular focus was placed on the cooperation in the development of biobased polyurethane raw materials and concepts to increase product safety, as well as the very good rating of Covestro's sustainability by the international rating agency EcoVadis.

"We are happy to receive this award once again. This is a recognition of our efforts at Covestro in driving sustainability as one of our core strategic pillars," said Michael Hellemann, Senior Vice President, Commercial Operations EMEA/LATAM in the Coatings, Adhesives, Specialties segment at Covestro. "The award underscores our commitment as a company caring for the environment and for social responsibility." Covestro develops biobased adhesive and coating hardeners such as Desmodur^® eco N, furthermore the new ultra series of curing agents with low content of free isocyanate monomers.

Every year, Henkel Adhesive Technologies honors strategic partners who offer first-class service in terms of overall supplier performance, innovation and sustainability – for the sixth time this year. Close cooperation with strategic suppliers is an important success factor for this division in order to further expand its innovation and technology leadership.

About Covestro:
With 2017 sales of EUR 14.1 billion, Covestro is among the world’s largest polymer companies. Business activities are focused on the manufacture of high-tech polymer materials and the development of innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life. The main segments served are the automotive, construction, wood processing and furniture, and electrical and electronics industries. Other sectors include sports and leisure, cosmetics, health and the chemical industry itself. Covestro has 30 production sites worldwide and employs approximately 16,200 people (calculated as full-time equivalents) at the end of 2017.

For more information please see www.covestro.com.
Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/covestro

Forward-looking statements
This news release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Covestro AG. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors include those discussed in Covestro’s public reports which are available at www.covestro.com. The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conform them to future events or developments.

First biobased coating hardener for lightfast polyurethane coatings

Wed, 17 Oct 2018 00:00:00 +0200

At eMove360° Europe 2018, the international trade fair for Mobility 4.0 in Munich, Covestro was awarded one of the coveted MATERIALICA Design + Technology Awards 2018. With the world's first biobased hardener for lightfast polyurethane coatings, the company managed to prevail in the “CO₂ Efficiency” category.

For years, Covestro has been increasingly using alternative raw materials to manufacture its products, also to reduce its own dependence on fossil resources. The material manufacturer is thus meeting the growing interest in products on this basis and is presenting itself as a pioneer in terms of sustainability.

Improved ecological footprint
“Our hardener is of similar high quality to its petrochemical counterparts,” explains Hiep Tran, project manager for the biobased hardener in the Coatings, Adhesives, Specialties segment at Covestro. “With a biomass proportion of 70 percent, however, it achieves a 30 percent better ecological footprint than comparable fossil products.”

In addition, its properties are also comparable, enabling processors to use formulated coatings on their systems with minimal adaptation costs. Coatings based on Desmodur^® eco N are equally suitable for automotive, plastics, wood, furniture and industrial coatings.

Promising drop-in solution
Along with alternative raw materials, industries such as the automotive industry rely above all on energy savings and the possibility of using existing processes and plants – at competitive prices for the products they use.

The polyurethane raw material Desmodur^® eco meets all these requirements: The hardener is produced from fermented feed maize and thus conserves fossil resources. Compared to conventional products, several process steps are saved during its manufacture.

First near-series car paint job
Last year, a project team consisting of employees from the vehicle manufacturer Audi, the BASF Coatings division and Covestro reached a new milestone: for the first time, Audi Q2 test bodies were successfully coated with a clear coat of the bio-based hardener. The application took place at the Ingolstadt plant under near-series conditions on existing systems. One of the vehicles was exhibited at the European Coatings Show from 4 to 6 April 2017 in Nuremberg.

Desmodur^® eco N is just the beginning: Covestro is expanding its product range to include a large number of variants with different properties – such as the recently launched water-soluble product Bayhydur^® eco, which is perfectly tailored to the requirements of high-performance waterborne coatings. At the same time, Covestro and its partners are working on the development of next-generation biobased raw materials from cellulose and waste biomass.

Renowned award
The MATERIALICA Design + Technology Award is presented to products and concepts that meet demanding criteria such as intelligent material selection, competent engineering, a high degree of innovation and convincing design. The prize has been awarded since 2003 and addresses designers and engineers alike. eMove360° Europe 2018 is one of the world's leading technology trade fairs for sustainable mobility solutions.

About Covestro:
With 2017 sales of EUR 14.1 billion, Covestro is among the world’s largest polymer companies. Business activities are focused on the manufacture of high-tech polymer materials and the development of innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life. The main segments served are the automotive, construction, wood processing and furniture, and electrical and electronics industries. Other sectors include sports and leisure, cosmetics, health and the chemical industry itself. Covestro has 30 production sites worldwide and employs approximately 16,200 people (calculated as full-time equivalents) at the end of 2017.

For more information please see www.covestro.com and https://www.emove360.com.

Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/covestro

Forward-looking statements
This news release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Covestro AG. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors include those discussed in Covestro’s public reports which are available at www.covestro.com. The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conform them to future events or developments.

Sonnenwagen – the success story goes on

Thu, 11 Oct 2018 00:00:00 +0200

For a few years now, a team of highly motivated students from RWTH Aachen University and FH Aachen has been working on the question of how to make electric mobility even more sustainable. Their goal is to develop a solar-powered electric car to take part in the toughest solar car races in the world. After the successful initial participation at the World Solar Challenge in Australia in 2017 as "Best Newcomer" and the achievement of the third place at the European Solar Challenge 2018, the team now wants to take the next step based on the accumulated experience and in the World Solar Challenge 2019 attack the world leaders around the teams from Stanford, Delft and Cambridge.

Covestro, a leading global provider of innovative and sustainable material solutions, shares the students' enthusiasm and will work with them to push existing boundaries to make the project a success. The company has a long-standing partnership with the renowned RWTH Aachen University and, following the successful and fruitful cooperation in the 2017 season, is supporting the solar car project with a variety of materials and technical services as well as being the main sponsor. Both partners have now signed a cooperation agreement on the project.

Partnership for solar mobility
"Sustainability is a core component of our corporate strategy, and solar mobility can make an important contribution to climate protection and the conservation of fossil resources," says Dr. Markus Steilemann, CEO of Covestro. "That is why we are supporting this ambitious project and intensifying our cooperation with the Sonnenwagen team. We use our innovative materials to provide solutions for future mobility. With this project, we are also promoting young talents.”

Markus Eckstein, first chairman of the Sonnenwagen team, welcomes the extended partnership: "We are very pleased to have Covestro back as a supporter. The cooperation with Covestro was already an important mainstay at the recent World Solar Challenge and helped us to reach the finish line in Adelaide as ´Best Newcomer´. The Sonnenwagen team can once again benefit from the high level of material expertise.”

Innovative materials for future mobility
The Leverkusen-based company has already gained some experience in solar mobility with innovative material developments: As an official partner of the Solar Impulse project, it made an important contribution to the success of the first manned, round-the-world flight with an airplane powered only by solar energy.

The test of a polyurethane car repair clearcoat from PPG at the World Challenge 2017, in which the biobased hardener Desmodur^® eco N 7300 from Covestro was used, was also successful. It also withstood the harsh climatic conditions in Australia.

The material and development cooperation will now be further expanded for 2019. A Covestro development team will be involved in the production plans of the solar car in order to contribute to an even lighter and more aerodynamic solar car design.

Successful start at the European Solar Challenge
As a first step on the way to Australia, the Sonnenwagen team has already successfully mastered the European Solar Challenge on the former Formula 1 race track in Zolder, Belgium. The aim of the race is not only to cover the greatest possible distance within 24 hours, but also to score points with innovations in vehicle development, the most constant 8-lap times and the fastest lap driven. The Sonnenwagen team was able to finish the toughest 24-hour race for solar vehicles in third place in the Challenger class.

"It couldn't get any better; despite the very difficult race course and the adverse weather conditions, we were able to get the optimum out of the race result," said first team chairman Markus Eckstein after the race. "We are confident that we will be able to take the upturn in success in Belgium with us to Australia and start there with a view to the podium as well.”

In addition, two members of the association won with an electric car now three years in a row at the e-CROSS Germany, a four-day, climate-neutral rally through North Rhine-Westphalia.

World's toughest solar race
The World Solar Challenge is considered to be the toughest solar race on earth and celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2017. Every two years, teams from all over the world compete to be the fastest to cover the 3,000 kilometer stretch from Darwin to Adelaide with homemade vehicles – without a drop of fuel.

About Covestro:
With 2017 sales of EUR 14.1 billion, Covestro is among the world’s largest polymer companies. Business activities are focused on the manufacture of high-tech polymer materials and the development of innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life. The main segments served are the automotive, construction, wood processing and furniture, and electrical and electronics industries. Other sectors include sports and leisure, cosmetics, health and the chemical industry itself. Covestro has 30 production sites worldwide and employs approximately 16,200 people (calculated as full-time equivalents) at the end of 2017.

About Sonnenwagen Aachen:
Sonnenwagen Aachen is an association registered since September 2015 and consists of 40 committed students of the RWTH Aachen University and the FH Aachen University of Applied Science. The aim of the association is to design and manufacture a solar-powered electric vehicle and to take part in the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge in October 2017 – an emission-free race across the Australian outback. As the only German team in the Challenger class, Team Sonnenwagen Aachen will compete with other international teams on the 3,022 km-long track. The central objective underlying participation in the races is to raise society's awareness regarding the issue of sustainable mobility and to contribute to the development of appropriate technologies.

This press release can be downloaded from Covestro's press server at www.covestro.com and from Sonnenwagen Aachen's website at www.sonnenwagen.org.

More information can be found at www.covestro.com, www.sonnenwagen.org and www.worldsolarchallenge.org.
Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/covestro

Forward-looking statements
This news release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Covestro AG. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors include those discussed in Covestro’s public reports which are available at www.covestro.com. The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conform them to future events or developments.

Biobased film former for perfect hairstyling

Mon, 08 Oct 2018 00:00:00 +0200

Covestro has developed a film-forming polyurethane (PU) dispersion for hairstyling products with a carbon content based on 58 percent biomass. The film former called Baycusan^® eco E 1000 achieves the excellent performance level of synthetic acrylate polymers, in particular in formulations where a long-lasting hold and a good humidity resistance are critical.

Baycusan^® eco E 1000 is the first product of the new eco series of film formers, which are based on renewable resources by more than 50 percent. Thus they fulfill the requirements of ISO standard 16128 part 1 to be designated as a naturally derived ingredient. Covestro already announced the series at In-Cosmetics Global trade fair in Amsterdam in April 2018.

The new film former will be officially presented to a professional public for the first time at the 2018 SEPAWA Conference, the most important meeting of the cosmetics, perfume, and cleaning agent industry in Europe. It will take place from October 10 to 12, 2018 in Berlin.

New opportunities for the cosmetics industry
“With the new film former we are opening a way out of a dilemma,” says Mélanie Dick, marketing manager for cosmetics & commercial operations in the EMEA/LATAM region at Covestro. The industry is already aware that sustainability and ingredients from natural, renewable sources are becoming more and more important to consumers. Yet in the past, using “green” raw materials in hairstyling and hair care agents was typically associated with visible and palpable disadvantages: Natural hair care products on the market often leave a visible residue on hair (“flaking”), give it a sticky touch, or don’t provide reliable hold. However, formulations containing Baycusan^® eco E 1000 don´t show these drawbacks.

Getting hair into shape
“Our new biobased film former can be used to manufacture sprays and gels that give the stylist a good, long-lasting, and flexible hold while offering anti-frizzing properties,” explains Dr. Laurence Pottié from Global Business Development for Cosmetics. The expert bases her assessments on the results of numerous tests. “Our hairstyling laboratory measured key properties of the new biobased PU dispersion and compared it to petrochemical-based filming polymers available on the market. In addition, we tested formulations using the new dispersion and with synthetic polymers.”

The laboratory also tested reference formulas in comparison, for instance, for their high humidity curl retention properties or using the so-called “curl snap test.” It revealed that hair strands treated with styling formulations based on Baycusan^® eco E 1000 maintained their original curl shape – even after they were repeatedly stretched by hand. They proved even better than formulations with other classic and synthetic film formers not based on polyurethane chemicals.

Good heat protection
While some consumers want hairstyling products that will hold their curls in place, there are others who want to smooth frizzy hair and stabilize a flat look. No matter whether they are using a hairdryer and curlers in one case or a smoothing iron in the other – the good heat resistance of the biobased dispersion ensures excellent protection for their hair. According to test results, this protection is at least as good as fully synthetic film formers. The dispersion should even provide the desired smoothing effect at lower temperatures, compared to synthetic products.

All in all, the new biobased film former Baycusan^® eco E 1000 opens up excellent possibilities for increasing the naturalness of cosmetic products, without having to make compromises in styling and quality. The product also has promising properties for use in hair conditioner formulas. Covestro is currently completing further tests for this application.

About Covestro:
With 2017 sales of EUR 14.1 billion, Covestro is among the world’s largest polymer companies. Business activities are focused on the manufacture of high-tech polymer materials and the development of innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life. The main segments served are the automotive, construction, wood processing and furniture, and electrical and electronics industries. Other sectors include sports and leisure, cosmetics, health and the chemical industry itself. Covestro has 30 production sites worldwide and employs approximately 16,200 people (calculated as full-time equivalents) at the end of 2017.

Find more information at www.covestro.com.
Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/Covestro

Forward-looking statements
This news release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Covestro AG. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors include those discussed in Covestro’s public reports which are available at www.covestro.com. The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conform them to future events or developments.

Efficient building insulation with polyurethane

Fri, 07 Sep 2018 00:00:00 +0200

In industrial and commercial construction, in public facilities and logistics buildings, energy efficiency, sustainability and compliance with climate protection targets will become increasingly important alongside cost-effectiveness. These and other challenges are the topic of this year's industrieBAU (Industrial Construction) Day on trends and future topics in industrial construction, which the industrieBAU magazine is organizing on September 27 at the Kasino Hotel in Chempark Leverkusen.

Rigid polyurethane (PU) foam is a very high-performance insulating material and is ideal for reducing energy consumption and CO₂ emissions in buildings as well as conserving fossil resources. In German industrial and commercial buildings made of sandwich panels, the insulating material now has a market share of around 80 percent. Covestro is supporting the event with a lecture and as a platinum sponsor and is inviting the participants to visit its technical center for polyurethane building products.

Sustainable insulating material for industrial and commercial buildings Sandwich panels consist of two metallic cover layers and a core of PU or even more fire-resistant polyisocyanurate (PIR) hard foam. "They have been used for many years for large-area and efficient thermal insulation of industrial and commercial buildings and facilitate fast, modular and cost-effective construction of buildings," says Stefanie Rau, marketing manager for the construction industry in the Europe, Middle East and Africa region.

Rigid PU foam is also used in insulation boards. They have flexible covering layers and are used to insulate pitched and flat roofs and floors as well as internal and external walls. "In flat roof applications, they are gaining increasing market share, which is due to their high compressive strength, water resistance and the associated low maintenance costs," explains Stefanie Rau. Both products are manufactured in a continuous process on double-belt lines.

Covestro – a pioneer in alternative raw materials
For even more sustainable thermal insulation of buildings, Covestro now additionally uses alternative raw materials for its production, also to reduce its own dependence on fossil resources. The company is currently working intensively on a CO₂-based raw material for rigid PU foam.

In addition, Covestro and its partners have developed a unique method for obtaining the key chemical product aniline from biobased raw materials. MDI could in future be produced from this bioaniline – another important raw material for rigid PU foam.

Modern technical center
A few years ago, Covestro set up a modern technical center for the industrial production of polyurethane foams in order to better support it in aligning its production to current market requirements. Among other things, the plant includes continuously operating systems for the production of insulation boards and sandwich panel elements, which are used for large-area insulation solutions in industrial construction. The goal is to further improve the insulating effect and fire resistance of these products in line with customer requirements and market trends.

Digitalization for greater efficiency
Digitalization opens up many opportunities for the construction industry and the associated value chain to increase productivity, make processes more efficient and support sustainability. Covestro pursues a comprehensive strategic program based on three dimensions – digital business processes, digital customer experience and new digital business models.

The implementation of the program begins for Covestro with more efficient operation of its own production and ranges from a comprehensive digital approach of business customers to the development of an innovative chemical trading platform, which is currently being tested. With the new business models, "digital technical services" are particularly important to make customer production even more efficient.

About Covestro:
With 2017 sales of EUR 14.1 billion, Covestro is among the world’s largest polymer companies. Business activities are focused on the manufacture of high-tech polymer materials and the development of innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life. The main segments served are the automotive, construction, wood processing and furniture, and electrical and electronics industries. Other sectors include sports and leisure, cosmetics, health and the chemical industry itself. Covestro has 30 production sites worldwide and employs approximately 16,200 people (calculated as full-time equivalents) at the end of 2017.

Find more information at www.covestro.com
Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/Covestro

Forward-looking statements
This news release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Covestro AG. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors include those discussed in Covestro’s public reports which are available at www.covestro.com. The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conform them to future events or developments.

Covestro supports sustainable urban development

Fri, 03 Aug 2018 00:00:00 +0200

Ongoing urbanization brings with it many challenges, especially in megacities as they are currently developing in countries such as China. Above all, solutions are needed that reduce the energy consumption of buildings and vehicles. The Chinese government is therefore promoting sustainable urban planning concepts and a wider use of renewable energies.

This is the goal of "Solar Decathlon China", a student competition for building concepts that use only solar energy. The venue for this year's "Olympic games for solar energy and green building industry," as the organizers call the Decathlon, is the city of Dezhou. It is also known as the "Sun City" because it is at the center of the Chinese solar industry. 22 student teams from 37 universities from around the world will take part in the competition.

With know-how and material solutions, Covestro supports two student groups in the competition – the joint team of Tongji University Shanghai and TU Darmstadt, and the team Shunya of the Indian Institute of Technology in Mumbai.

Megacities as a challenge and opportunity

"The fast-growing megacities in these two countries present particular challenges to population supply, the development of the infrastructure and climate protection," says Dr. Markus Steilemann, CEO of Covestro. "At the same time, local universities and companies often develop the best solutions for global trends such as progressive urbanization."

Therefore, close cooperation with local partners is particularly important: "Together with them, we develop innovative and sustainable material solutions for energy-efficient buildings. On that basis we want to help shape future habitats and make the world a brighter place," says Markus Steilemann.

With such projects, Covestro is committed to achieving the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations. Particular priorities are sustainable cities (SDG number 11) and the use of renewable energy (SDG number 7).

Solar Decathlon China: holistic residential solutions in demand

Each team was to design and build a one- or two-story solar house with a floor space of between 120 and 200 square meters. The solution is evaluated according to ten criteria: architecture, market appeal, engineering, communications, innovation, comfort zone, appliances, home life, commuting and energy performance.

On August 17, the winning concept will be announced. After that the area will be turned into a permanent exhibition for sustainable construction and into the first intelligent low-carbon park in China.

Sophisticated construction concepts

The EnergyPLUS Home 4.0 from Tongji University and TU Darmstadt has a modular structure, so that several units can be combined to form an apartment building. Covestro produces transparent and heat-insulating polycarbonate panels for the façade, as well as polyurethane raw materials for water-based, yet water-permeable outdoor floor coatings. They are a perfect fit for new city drainage systems like so-called sponge grounds that soak in water and direct it into piping systems underground.

Mumbai's Shunya team's Solarise concept combines regional architectural principles and includes climatic and cultural aspects. It is a net positive energy solar villa with a floor space of 150 square meters, which is suitable for a family of six people comprising all modern amenities for comfortable and sustainable living. Products from Covestro are used in insulating polycarbonate panels on the roof, in polyisocyanurate insulation panels in walls and floors, and in the coating of the steel framework.

In focus: renewable energies

“With the support of the Solar Decathlon China, Covestro also underlines its commitment to the expansion of renewable energies such as solar and wind power,” says Dr. Christian Haessler, head of Sustainability at Covestro and former head of its Polymer Research and Development Center in Shanghai. The company was the official sponsor of the Solar Impulse project of the pioneers Bertrand Piccard and André Borschberg, who for the first time circumnavigated the earth with a solar-powered aircraft. In addition, students from the RWTH Aachen University, who participated in a self-built solar car at the World Solar Challenge 2017 in Australia, arguably the toughest solar race in the world, were supported.

“Covestro is also involved in expanding wind power, especially in China,” adds Christian Haessler. “Together with partners, we developed a new polyurethane composite for rotor blades of wind turbines. These are more flexible and robust than conventional blades and can be made faster and more economically.”

Worldwide competition for solar construction

The first Solar Decathlon events took place from 2002 in the USA. Later offshoots were also established in other regions. The initiator and organizer continues to be the US Department of Energy. This year's Solar Decathlon China will also be hosted by China's Ministry of Energy and other national authorities.

About Covestro:

With 2017 sales of EUR 14.1 billion, Covestro is among the world’s largest polymer companies. Business activities are focused on the manufacture of high-tech polymer materials and the development of innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life. The main segments served are the automotive, construction, wood processing and furniture, and electrical and electronics industries. Other sectors include sports and leisure, cosmetics, health and the chemical industry itself. Covestro has 30 production sites worldwide and employs approximately 16,200 people (calculated as full-time equivalents) at the end of 2017.

More information can be found at www.covestro.com and www.career.covestro.com.
Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/covestro

Forward-looking statements

Brunel University student wins Design Innovation in Plastics competition with balcony shelf product

Mon, 09 Jul 2018 00:00:00 +0200

A student from Brunel University has scooped top prize in the annual Design Innovation in Plastics (DIP) competition with a cleverly designed shelf which can fit on a balcony railing and accommodate anything from a plant to a bottle of wine.

Product Design student, Alex Roquero, impressed the competition judges with his ‘Hook’, a portable shelf which is integrated with a flowerbox, and fits to any kind of railing – ideal for people who have no garden, or reduced space, and want something which hooks onto a balcony.
Thanks to its unique shape, as well as plants, it can also carry day-to-day products such as coffee mugs, wine glasses, beer bottles or even books.

DIP, which is organized by the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining and the Worshipful Company of Horners, and is headline sponsored by Covestro, gave students the brief of ‘Branching Out – Design For Garden Innovation’.

They were asked to come up with an innovative product, primarily from plastics, which could be used in a garden, that would better connect people with nature, enhance the pleasure of gardening or leisure activities within the garden, or help sooth mind and body after a long and stressful day.

Chairman of judges, Richard Brown, commented: “It was evident that this product could become a marketable item, as living spaces become smaller, and more ‘Juliet’ balconies are integrated into new builds, especially in Europe. Alex tackled a problem that he was familiar with from the environment in his home country of Spain, and took a holistic approach to provide a multi-purpose solution. We were impressed by the way he took into consideration all the elements of the brief, from initial concept, patent and IP search, manufacturability, point of sale options and sustainability. He used polypropylene, which has the mechanical properties required for this kind of product and is completely recyclable.”

Alex wins a trip to Germany to visit the Covestro, the global polymers manufacturer, and also wins placements with competition sponsors, RJG Technology, which provides injection molding industry support, training and advisory services, and PDD, the product and service design and innovation consultancy.

He said taking part in the competition and getting this far had driven him to develop expertise and gain experience in areas he had not studied before and to be especially aware of considerations such as sustainability, which had influenced even small decisions in the design and production of his balcony shelf.

“Being able to produce a physical working prototype helped me realise how challenging and satisfying it is to make your designs work in real life,” he added.

In second place was William Oughton, an Integrated Product Design student, also from Brunel University. William created ‘Bulb Garden Furniture’, a concept set of garden accessories which fit to any type of panel, wire or post built fences, and can be used as bird feeders, planters, bird houses or solar outdoor light.

In third was Olivia Alexander, a Product Design student from De Montfort University, with Buzz, a bee-friendly planter which administers an anti-mite substance directly to the bees to protect them from the Varroa mite.

Three other students gained highly commended:
• Fatima Abedi Manji, De Montfort University: Gingko – a planter for urban spaces designed specifically with children in mind to help their development and promote the joy of gardening.
• Lewis Brown, Teesside University: Dynamic Grip – an ergonomic garden multi-tool targeting gardeners with arthritis.
• Zeina Mofti, Brunel University: G Cycle – a product which combines modern indoor gardening with home aquariums to enhance wellbeing, by providing a calm and relaxing environment.

All the finalists are being offered a short placement with one of the competition sponsors, Brightworks, HellermannTyton, Innovate Product Design, PDD and RJG Technologies, as part of their prize, and Olivia Alexander, who won the Covestro Award, chosen by Covestro judges, will visit the company alongside the winner.

The Design Innovation in Plastics Award is the longest running student plastics design competition in Europe, having been established in 1985.

About Covestro:
With 2017 sales of EUR 14.1 billion, Covestro is among the world’s largest polymer companies. Business activities are focused on the manufacture of high-tech polymer materials and the development of innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life. The main segments served are the automotive, construction, wood processing and furniture, and electrical and electronics industries. Other sectors include sports and leisure, cosmetics, health and the chemical industry itself. Covestro has 30 production sites worldwide and employs approximately 16,200 people (calculated as full-time equivalents) at the end of 2017.

Find more information at www.covestro.com.
Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/Covestro

Forward-looking statements
This news release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Covestro AG. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors include those discussed in Covestro’s public reports which are available at www.covestro.com. The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conform them to future events or developments.

School expansion in just a few weeks

Mon, 04 Jun 2018 00:00:00 +0200

The Ernst Moritz Arndt School in Burscheid needs more space. For the 2017/2018 school year, a total of 129 children were enrolled in the Comprehensive All-Day School. This was a great challenge for the school authorities, because when there was an acute need for additional classrooms, quick and cost-effective solutions were needed.

The material manufacturer Covestro is breaking new ground when it comes to the rapid provision of affordable living space or – in this case – municipal buildings. Together with industrial partners, public authorities and society, the company develops appropriate models and supervises specific projects on site.

Innovative construction concept sets a precedent
One current example is the expansion of the Ernst Moritz Arndt School. Together with the City of Burscheid and Covestro, the French prefabricated building manufacturer Logelis built a new classroom with a floor space of 42 square meters on the grounds of the school garden. Thanks to the efficient construction of self-supporting polyurethane sandwich panels, it was possible to complete the shell within a week.

“We were impressed by the short construction time, because the move into the building was just as quick as into a container,” said Mayor Stefan Caplan on occasion of the handover of the keys to school principal Sonja Tippel and Ulrike Hanke, the chairwoman of the association for child care services at Burscheid – BiB e.V. “At the same time, the construction method offers us the greatest possible flexibility in architecture. This made it possible to adapt the size, layout and style of the building very well to the local conditions and our school needs”.

Cost and time advantages in construction and use
Pejman Norastehfar, who is in charge of the project at Covestro, explains the particular advantages of the concept: "The wall elements from Logelis are easy to manufacture and, thanks to their low weight, easy to transport. They are simply inserted into one another on site. That saves time and money."

The expert adds: “The building solution is also energy-efficient, because the good insulating properties of the rigid polyurethane foam ensure that it remains comfortably warm inside the building at cold outdoor temperatures and does not become too hot in summer. As a result, students can benefit from an optimal learning environment.”

Another pilot project: the “House of Nations”
The prototype of a multifunctional house in Bergisch Gladbach was built a year ago in a similarly efficient manner. This municipality was also faced with the challenge of constructing a building for permanent use quickly and inexpensively. With the “House of Nations”, Covestro – again in cooperation with the city administration and the company Logelis – presented a model that is universally transferable and has now also led to success in Burscheid.

Covestro has been supporting projects to create affordable housing in Asia for several years. They are based on the company's raw material expertise and customer know-how and have been implemented in close cooperation with local partners and authorities. The projects mainly benefit people who have become homeless after a natural disaster. A number of such units have already been set up in Malaysia and the Middle East.

A sustainable model
The buildings are designed for permanent use and are designed to ensure a high quality of life and the health of the residents. All projects are in line with Covestro's integrated sustainability concept in that they benefit society but have little impact on the environment. The model also contributes to meeting the United Nations' sustainability goals. More than ten million people are expected to benefit from this by 2025.

Pejman Norastehfar is responsible for Covestro's projects in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. He can be reached at the e-mail address pejman.norastehfar@covestro.com, mobile at +49 172 615 4221.

About Covestro:
With 2017 sales of EUR 14.1 billion, Covestro is among the world’s largest polymer companies. Business activities are focused on the manufacture of high-tech polymer materials and the development of innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life. The main segments served are the automotive, construction, wood processing and furniture, and electrical and electronics industries. Other sectors include sports and leisure, cosmetics, health and the chemical industry itself. Covestro has 30 production sites worldwide and employs approximately 16,200 people (calculated as full-time equivalents) at the end of 2017.

Find more information at www.covestro.com.
Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/Covestro

Forward-looking statements
This news release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Covestro AG. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors include those discussed in Covestro’s public reports which are available at www.covestro.com. The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conform them to future events or developments.

Innovation for sustainable growth

Fri, 27 Apr 2018 00:00:00 +0200

More than 80 years after their "invention" by Dr. Otto Bayer, the application areas for polyurethanes are more versatile than ever before: hardly any other plastic can be found in so many areas of everyday life. According to forecasts, annual growth rates are likely to remain above the global gross domestic product. Polyurethane innovations, in response to global challenges such as population growth and urbanization, climate change, digitization and growing mobility, are an important driver of rising demand.

"For Covestro, such innovations are the key to sustainable growth," says Daniel Meyer, Global Head of the Polyurethanes segment. "With our developments we want to create added value for customers and society while minimizing the impact on the environment – in line with our mission to make the world a brighter place.”

Thinking in life cycles
Already at UTECH 2015, Covestro – then still known as Bayer MaterialScience – made an explicit commitment under the motto "Do You Think In Life Cycles?” to close material cycles in an ingenious economical and ecological manner and to evaluate complete life cycles. The company will be presenting current examples of such sustainable developments at Stands 520 and 530 at UTECH Europe 2018 from 29 to 31 May in Maastricht. The company also expressly supports the global sustainability goals of the United Nations, in short: SDGs.

"By using our CO₂ technology for the synthesis of polyurethane raw materials, we have overcome previous limitations and have begun to close the carbon cycle in plastics production," explains Hermann-Josef Dörholt, Sales Manager in the Polyurethanes segment in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. The products are marketed under the name cardyon^®.

"In addition, we have developed a unique method for obtaining the polyurethane precursor aniline from vegetable raw materials," says Hermann-Josef Dörholt. Another example for the utilization of alternative raw material sources is polyols for sporting goods, which can be produced from paraformaldehyde and whose carbon footprint is superior to conventional polyol raw materials.

Innovative model to create affordable housing
Creating housing quickly, cost-effectively and sustainably is a global challenge in the face of population growth and urbanization. This is true above all in low-income and economically underdeveloped regions, but also in places where housing is scarce or expensive, such as in densely populated areas or cities with a high influx of refugees.

Together with industry partners, governments, authorities and society, Covestro develops solutions for affordable housing as part of an integrative business model and manages specific projects on site. Among other things, polyurethane sandwich elements are used, which are characterized by excellent insulating properties and give the building envelope the necessary strength. A current example is the "House of Nations", a multifunctional house in Bergisch Gladbach, Germany.

The company has been supporting projects to create affordable housing for long-term use in Asia and the Middle East for several years. The advantages of this model are to benefit over 10 million people by the year 2025.

Digitization in the polyurethane industry
The digitization of industrial processes continues to progress. In the plastics industry, it should take research and development, production, process chains, sustainability projects and customer contacts to a new level and ultimately contribute to increased business success.

This applies in particular to polyurethanes, whose product properties are determined in a complex manner by chemistry and process engineering. With the help of modern data management, these materials can be produced significantly more efficiently and precisely with the desired properties. Another pillar of Covestro's digital strategy is electronic trading platforms.

A leap in performance for pultrusion
Process optimization is also important in pultrusion, an important industrial process for the continuous production of continuous fiber-reinforced composite profiles. Together with partners, Covestro has significantly increased process speed and thus opened the door to broader industrial use.

Covestro offers the liquid polyurethane system Baydur PUL^® for very robust profiles with very good thermal insulation properties, for example for windows. Another system, Desmocomp^®, is characterized not only by good mechanical properties but also by excellent weather stability and is therefore intended for visible applications outdoors.

New elastomers and casting machines
At the adjacent booth – number 530 – the subsidiary Covestro Elastomers SAS is presenting versatile polyurethane elastomer formulations that meet high demands and which are easy to process. In addition, a new machine concept will be presented with which the application of the casting resins can be tailored to individual requirements. The concept is very flexible so that future needs can also be taken into account. The product range is supplemented by a comprehensive service package for customers.

About Covestro:
With 2017 sales of EUR 14.1 billion, Covestro is among the world’s largest polymer companies. Business activities are focused on the manufacture of high-tech polymer materials and the development of innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life. The main segments served are the automotive, construction, wood processing and furniture, and electrical and electronics industries. Other sectors include sports and leisure, cosmetics, health and the chemical industry itself. Covestro has 30 production sites worldwide and employs approximately 16,200 people (calculated as full-time equivalents) at the end of 2017.

For more information please see www.covestro.com.
Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/covestro

Forward-Looking Statements
This news release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Covestro AG. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors include those discussed in Covestro’s public reports. These reports are available at www.covestro.com. The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to make them conform to future events or developments.

Concepts for a modern wound care

Wed, 25 Apr 2018 00:00:00 +0200

The European Wound Management Association Congress – EWMA – from May 9 to 11, 2018 in Krakow, Poland, is all about providing patients with effective wound care and improving their quality of care.

At the accompanying exhibition, Covestro will be presenting material solutions based on the innovative Baymedix^® polyurethane technology, at Booth D406. It enables efficient production of foams, adhesives, films, bandages and medical gloves. A specialty films portfolio from Platilon^® completes the offer. The products open up a broad field of application both in modern wound care and in new wearable patch devices.

Foams based on the product Baymedix^® FP505 are characterized by very good absorption and excellent retention. This allows optimized moisture management.

New non-swelling, thermoformable foam allows fast fluid transport
In addition, at the 2018 EWMA Congress, Covestro will be presenting thermoformable foams made from the Baymedix^® FD103 aqueous dispersion. Thanks to the microporous cell structure, they can quickly transfer fluids without swelling.

The special feature here is that the foams can be applied in thin layers on a carrier material and later molded into shape through heat and pressure.

Portable electronics on the skin
One possible application is the wearable patch. During manufacture, the foam is sealed to the film and a flat electronic circuit is embedded. Consumers use such thin wearable patch devices to measure their body temperature, blood sugar level or heart rate. In sports and leisure they serve to provide fitness data feedback.

The patches offer great market potential, especially for medical diagnostics and treatment of diseases. Thanks to the thin and breathable layer structure and the use of skin friendly adhesives based on Baymedix^® A for fixation Covestro contributes to greater comfort for patients. At the same time, the company uses its experience in medical technology to enable a fast, flexible and cost-efficient production of such composites patches.

About Covestro:
With 2017 sales of EUR 14.1 billion, Covestro is among the world’s largest polymer companies. Business activities are focused on the manufacture of high-tech polymer materials and the development of innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life. The main segments served are the automotive, construction, wood processing and furniture, and electrical and electronics industries. Other sectors include sports and leisure, cosmetics, health and the chemical industry itself. Covestro has 30 production sites worldwide and employs approximately 16,200 people (calculated as full-time equivalents) at the end of 2017.

Find more information at www.covestro.com.
Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/Covestro

Forward-looking statements
This news release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Covestro AG. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors include those discussed in Covestro’s public reports which are available at www.covestro.com. The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conform them to future events or developments.

High performance polyurethane systems from Covestro ensure energy-efficient and safe buildings

Tue, 10 Apr 2018 00:00:00 +0200

In recent years, some fires in Dubai’s prominent high-rise buildings were gaining worldwide media attention and have resulted in local authorities tightening the “United Arab Emirates (UAE) Fire and Life Safety Code” – not only for high-rise structures, but also for other types of buildings.

Bayer Pearl, Covestro’s polyurethane systems house Joint Venture in Dubai, is fully supporting the newly published UAE Fire and Life Safety Code and the regulations for sandwich panels in pre-engineered buildings like factories, warehouses and single- or double-story office buildings. The new regulation demands the use of products fulfilling highest fire safety standards.

Raising awareness for a better protection of citizens was the aim of the 8^th Annual Fire Safety Forum, held recently at Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Bayer Pearl attended the Forum and attracted much interest with their latest generation of polyisocyanurate (PIR) systems.

Sandwich panels with superior fire safety
These PIR systems are particularly suitable for use in sandwich panels for pre-engineered buildings, as their flame-retardant properties are superior to those of formerly used polyurethane systems. Thus it is with good reason that they achieve good fire ratings, such as the FM approval.

“Our PIR systems contribute significantly to achieving the ambitious energy saving targets of the United Arab Emirates,” says Wissam Khaddaj, Head of Marketing at Bayer Pearl. “At the same time these FM-approved products offer maximum safety.”

Dr. Rolf Roers, head of Covestro´s regional advocacy team for polyurethanes in Europe, Middle East, Africa and Latin America, adds, “Sandwich Panels made of PIR are used in all regions of the world. Their insulation properties are superior to all other insulation materials, including mineral wool.” With such developments Bayer Pearl underscores its expertise as a leading regional polyurethane systems house. It is also an active member of the Emirates Green Building Council.

Best insulating properties
Over many years, polyurethane rigid foam has proven to be the most efficient material for the insulation of buildings. Beyond its exceptional thermal properties it also provides good fire protection. This makes it the material of choice for a healthy, safe and comfortable living. Continued technical developments have led to the next product generation – PIR systems, which are characterized by a similar efficient insulation, but superior thermal resistance.

About Covestro:
With 2017 sales of EUR 14.1 billion, Covestro is among the world’s largest polymer companies. Business activities are focused on the manufacture of high-tech polymer materials and the development of innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life. The main segments served are the automotive, construction, wood processing and furniture, and electrical and electronics industries. Other sectors include sports and leisure, cosmetics, health and the chemical industry itself. Covestro has 30 production sites worldwide and employs approximately 16,200 people (calculated as full-time equivalents) at the end of 2017.

Find more information at www.covestro.com and www.buildingefficiency.covestro.com.

Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/Covestro

Forward-looking statements
This news release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Covestro AG. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors include those discussed in Covestro’s public reports which are available at www.covestro.com. The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conform them to future events or developments.

Composites for economical lightweight construction

Mon, 05 Mar 2018 00:00:00 +0100

Fiber-reinforced composites are becoming increasingly important worldwide. This actually comes as no surprise, as the demand for lightweight materials with high strength is increasing in more and more industries. The number of new composite applications is correspondingly large, also as a replacement for conventional materials such as metal or wood. New properties also add to the range of possible applications.

Covestro has been involved in the development of material solutions for composite materials for many years. Be it miniaturized electronic products, thermally insulated facades or wind power plants: energy and resource-saving composites, together with efficient manufacturing technologies, are among the core components of Covestro's sustainability concept.

At the composite industry's international performance show, the JEC World 2018 from March 6 to 8 in Paris, the company will be presenting lightweight, rigid and aesthetic materials and efficient processes for their production at Stand C28 in Hall 5.

New high-tech material

Covestro has developed a completely new composite technology for the efficient production of particularly thin, lightweight, high-strength yet aesthetic parts. It is based on continuous fiber-reinforced thermoplastic composites (CFRTP) made of polycarbonate. Covestro produces tapes and sheets for further processing by customers and has now significantly expanded its production capacity at Markt Bibart to supply the world from there.

Especially in the electronics industry, the trend is towards thinner and thinner housings, e. g. for laptops and smartphones. Laptop lids can be manufactured from CFRTP plates in a single-stage process, enabling shorter cycle times and significant cost savings. Compared to magnesium alloys, they are around 15 percent lighter and can be equipped with aesthetic surface structures.

Wind power rotor blade nearly 60 meters long

The expansion of renewable energy sources such as wind energy continues to progress. Even more intensive use requires a more cost-efficient production of wind turbines.

Covestro has developed a special polyurethane infusion resin for rotor blades. In combination with reinforcing glass fibers and an efficient vacuum manufacturing process, it enables shorter cycle times and thus cost advantages. The resin developed in China has been awarded DNV-GL certification - a prerequisite for entering the Chinese wind power industry.

In China, a new prototype of a rotor blade with a blade length of 59.5 meters has now been produced. Covestro wants to produce more blades with even longer blade lengths in order to enable an even more efficient use of wind energy.

Composite material for facade insulation

In the BeNeLux region, strict specifications apply with regard to the thermal efficiency of the building envelope. Curtain-type ventilated facades are widespread, especially in office and industrial buildings there. With today's material solutions, the ever-increasing requirements can only be met with thicker insulation material or not at all.

For the regional situation, FISCO composite solutions company in Zusmarshausen, Germany, together with further partners, has now developed a new wall bracket that meets the requirements and which significantly facilitates the assembly process. The mounting system is part of the substructure for curtain-type ventilated facades and consists of two different elements: a core made of glass-fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP) which carries the load of dead weight and wind from the facade into the masonry, and a cylindrical insulation board which encloses the GFRP core and improves the insulating effect.

Fire-resistant polyurethane material

Due to its outstanding fire protection and good mechanical properties, FISCO composite solutions uses the Desmocomp^® material from Covestro as matrix material for the GFRP core. The aliphatic polyurethane resin was developed primarily for outdoor applications, as it has very good weather resistance. The single-component system can be easily processed using the pultrusion process.

Waterborne polyurethane dispersions from the Baybond^® line are used as film formers in glass and carbon fiber sizings for thermoplastic composite materials. The dispersions boast very good film formation, elasticity, adhesion and yellowing stability and ensure good mechanical stability of the composite. What’s more, some Baybond^® products are also approved for contact with foods. Covestro is also working on new products for thermosetting applications.

About Covestro:

Find more information at www.covestro.com and www.jeccomposites.com.
Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/CovestroGroup

Forward-looking statements

Bonding soles via digital printing

Mon, 19 Feb 2018 00:00:00 +0100

ATOM Lab, the research and innovation business unit of shoe machinery manufacturer ATOM, will present a fully-automated process for shoe production for the first time at the Simac Tanning Tech trade fair in Milan from February 20–22, 2018. At its booth in Hall 14, visitors can select 3D-printed soles and uppers, and have customized shoes made for them.

The most technically challenging step in this process is bonding the outsole to the shoe upper. Covestro developed an efficient solution for this within a very short time. It is based on polyurethane raw materials for adhesives, which are applied to the outsole or upper by means of digital printing.

Digital printing of adhesives

For the application, ATOM Lab used a variation of the melt layer method (Fused Filament Fabrication, FFF, or Fused Deposition Modeling, FDM). This method uses strands of melt-processable adhesives – so-called filaments – which are melted. The molten adhesive is applied according to a digital print layout. The sole and upper are then joined under pressure. This creates a solid, permanent adhesive bond.

This application using adhesive filaments is quick and efficient. Furthermore, it is very precise and reproducible, and it is also well suited for absorbent substrates. Due to the use of solid filaments, for example, the subsequent drying process may be dispensed. The adhesive features a high initial strength. Since application takes place from the melt, the adhesive is already activated. If the open time is sufficiently long, the fabricator can dispense with prior heat activation. Thus, two process steps can be saved in total.

Broad experience in additive manufacturing

Covestro benefited from its experience in additive manufacturing with the technology and material solution developed on short notice. The company is involved in conventional printing methods and is currently developing a wide range of materials. Among these are filaments and raw materials for the FFF method, which so far has been used primarily in rapid prototyping.

Polyurethane adhesives have proven to be successful in shoe manufacturing. They are easy to process and result in flexible yet strong and durable adhesive joints with high impact resistance. Covestro offers a comprehensive range of raw materials for one- and two-component adhesives that are often developed in close collaboration with formulators.

About Covestro:

With 2016 sales of EUR 11.9 billion, Covestro is among the world’s largest polymer companies. Business activities are focused on the manufacture of high-tech polymer materials and the development of innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life. The main segments served are the automotive, construction, wood processing and furniture, and electrical and electronics industries. Other sectors include sports and leisure, cosmetics, health and the chemical industry itself. Covestro has 30 production sites worldwide and employs approximately 15,600 people (calculated as full-time equivalents) at the end of 2016.

For more information please see www.covestro.com.

Forward-looking statements

Covestro introduces coating and adhesive raw materials with significantly lower monomer content

Thu, 07 Dec 2017 00:00:00 +0100

Responsible handling of chemical substances has always been necessary for avoiding health risks. This also holds true for isocyanate processing. Covestro is committed to continually improving the performance and safety of its products, and above all, to setting new standards in industrial hygiene.

Through continual improvements to the manufacturing process, Covestro has succeeded in reducing the residual monomer content of free monomeric diisocyanates to under 0.1 percent by weight. Products meeting these requirements can be recognized by the addition of “ultra” to the product designation. In the coming months Covestro wants to offer raw materials for solvent-based and solvent-free products (Desmodur® ultra) as well as for aqueous coatings and adhesives (Bayhydur® ultra), thereby replacing a significant proportion of the previous product portfolio. Further products should be added to the ultra line in the near future.

“With the new ultra products, in combination with the application of the usual safety measures, we are setting new standards for our customers in industrial hygiene,” says Michael Friede, Global Head of the Coatings, Adhesives, Specialties segment at Covestro. “As a result, the new product line’s raw materials match the performance level of our conventional products.”

About Covestro:
With 2016 sales of EUR 11.9 billion, Covestro is among the world’s largest polymer companies. Business activities are focused on the manufacture of high-tech polymer materials and the development of innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life. The main segments served are the automotive, construction, wood processing and furniture, and electrical and electronics industries. Other sectors include sports and leisure, cosmetics, health and the chemical industry itself. Covestro has 30 production sites worldwide and employs approximately 15,600 people (calculated as full-time equivalents) at the end of 2016.

Find more information at www.covestro.com.
Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/CovestroGroup

Forward-looking statements
This news release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Covestro AG. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors include those discussed in Covestro’s public reports which are available at www.covestro.com. The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conform them to future events or developments.

Major advancement in pultrusion

Mon, 13 Nov 2017 00:00:00 +0100

Covestro, together with KraussMaffei and the Institute of Plastics Processing at RWTH Aachen University, was the recipient of a 2017 FSK Innovation Award for polyurethanes. The Specialist Association of Foamed Plastics and Polyurethanes (FSK) elected to honor the partners’ achievements in promoting the wider industrial use of pultrusion with polyurethane resins.

For the award in the category “Technology – Processing and Chemistry,” the panel of judges commended the increased cost-efficiency of the method for processors and the partnering approach to the project. The award ceremony was held at the International FSK Specialist Conference Polyurethane 2017 in Gurten, Austria.

Tremendous potential
Pultruded composite sections have already proven successful in thermally insulating window frames and in reinforcing rotor blades for wind turbines. The process offers tremendous potential for the continuous manufacturing of composite sections, but more widespread use was prevented until now by the inadequate degree of industrialization.

In close cooperation, the three partners enhanced the chemistry, technology and process to significantly increase productivity as well as process and product quality. Processors can now cut costs significantly compared to the previous method.

Flexible turnkey systems with high automation
The new iPul machines from KraussMaffei are the first turnkey systems to incorporate system, process and die technology all from a single supplier. Critical processing parameters, such as output rate and haul-off rate, are controlled centrally.

In the new systems, the fibers are no longer impregnated in an open process, but rather by a metering machine in a closed injection chamber. Apart from eliminating odor problems for a pultruder’s employees, the new technology supports precision temperature management during curing and thus increases production speeds. The systems are sensor-assisted and highly automated.

Another advantage of the iPul machines is their extensive flexibility and precision. Thanks to the injection chamber and metering device with newly engineered mixing head, a wide variety of resins can now be processed, including highly reactive polyurethane systems. The matrix material is injected at low pressure to additionally cut costs.

The polyurethane advantage
Polyurethane resins offer significant advantages over established pultrusion materials, such as epoxy, unsaturated polyester and vinyl ester resins. Their low viscosity, good fiber wetting and high reactivity support faster processing speeds than epoxies, which reduces manufacturing costs. Another advantage is their considerable flexibility: The reaction time and viscosity of polyurethane resins can be varied widely, permitting the reproduction of even very thin component geometries.

Covestro markets the polyurethane systems Baydur® PUL and Desmocomp® for pultrusion. The former are liquid, two-component systems for fabricating highly durable sections that display outstanding thermal insulation properties, among other things. They therefore are perfectly suited for use in insulating window frames. Desmocomp® displays not only good mechanical properties, but also excellent UV and weathering resistance, making it the product of choice for outdoor applications. The aliphatic system won a JEC Innovation Award at this year’s JEC World Composites trade show.

How pultrusion works
In pultrusion, glass, carbon or other fibers are fed continuously from rovings into an injection chamber, where they are impregnated with a liquid, thermoset resin system. The fiber composite cures on exposure to heat in a die. The hardened section is pulled continuously in the process, hence its name. After cooling, the profile is trimmed by an integrated saw. The resulting, straight sections display low weight, paired with very high strength and stiffness in the fiber direction.

Covestro and the Institute of Plastics Processing (IKV) at RWTH Aachen University are cooperating closely on pultrusion process development using polyurethanes. The IKV with its long-term experience in the fields of polyurethane processing and pultrusion with reactive resin systems is supporting Covestro in case of development issues regarding pultrusion processes.

The FSK has been sponsoring the Innovation Award every year since 1998 in recognition of outstanding ideas, products and processes in the categories Design, Technology and Process and Chemical Engineering.

About Covestro:
With 2016 sales of EUR 11.9 billion, Covestro is among the world’s largest polymer companies. Business activities are focused on the manufacture of high-tech polymer materials and the development of innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life. The main segments served are the automotive, construction, wood processing and furniture, and electrical and electronics industries. Other sectors include sports and leisure, cosmetics, health and the chemical industry itself. Covestro has 30 production sites worldwide and employs approximately 15,600 people (calculated as full-time equivalents) at the end of 2016.

About KraussMaffei:
The KraussMaffei product brand is internationally recognized for its groundbreaking, multitechnology system and process solutions for injection and reaction molding technology and factory automation. With its standalone, modular or standardized machinery and systems, and a wide, customizable service offering, KraussMaffei is a full-system partner for customers in many industry sectors. KraussMaffei bundles many decades of engineering expertise in plastics machinery and is headquartered in Munich, Germany.
For more information: www.kraussmaffei.com

About IKV:
IKV, the Institute of Plastics Processing in Industry and the Skilled Crafts at RWTH Aachen University, is Europe-wide the leading research and education institute engaged in the field of plastics processing enjoying outstanding reputation. More than 300 staff are employed in finding solutions to problems connected with processing, materials technology and part design in the plastics and rubber industries. IKV's close contacts with industry and science, together with its outstanding facilities, enable cutting-edge research in plastics technology and ensure that students benefit from a comprehensive, practically oriented course of study. IKV is run by an Association of Sponsors, which currently has a membership of about 290 plastics companies from all over the world. Univ.-Prof. Dr.-Ing. Christian Hopmann is Head of the Institute and Managing Director of the Association of Sponsors. He also holds the Chair of Plastics Processing at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at RWTH Aachen University.

For more information go to www.covestro.com.
Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/CovestroGroup

Forward-Looking Statements
This news release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Covestro AG management. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors include those discussed in Covestro's public reports, which are available on the Covestro website at www.covestro.com. The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conform them to future events or developments.

80 years of polyurethane

Fri, 10 Nov 2017 00:00:00 +0100

Polyurethanes have changed the world. We have them to thank for energy-efficient refrigerators, comfortable upholstered furniture, safe car seats, protective coatings and lightweight composites (see video at https://youtu.be/Brwl9ASvSJs). 80 years ago, Dr. Otto Bayer discovered polyurethane chemistry virtually by accident. His perseverance and creativity launched the sweeping success of one of the world’s most versatile plastics – and the success story is far from over.

“With curiosity and courage Covestro is advancing the development of polyurethanes to make the world a brighter place,” says Daniel Meyer, Global Head of the Polyurethanes segment. “We don’t leave anything to chance but are specifically pushing existing boundaries to make more efficient insulating materials, even lighter materials, and even more resource-saving products possible.”

All new developments must meet Covestro’s sustainability targets. “We take a comprehensive approach to the entire product life cycle, including social, ecological and economic aspects,” says Daniel Meyer. “Our products are manufactured on the basis of carbon. Our goal is to draw the maximum benefit from the carbon we use.”

Even more efficient refrigerators

Polyurethanes make an important contribution to securing global food supplies: Some 95 percent of the world’s refrigerators are thermally insulated with rigid polyurethane foam – and the Baytherm^® Microcell polyurethane system can raise their insulating performance by another ten percent. That means greater energy and cost savings in households and reduced CO₂ emissions. A leading appliance manufacturer is already using this system in its production.

Carbon dioxide as a raw material

Covestro has developed a method for using the greenhouse gas CO₂ to synthesize polyurethane components. It markets these raw materials, known as polyols, under the brand name cardyon™ for the production of flexible polyurethane foam, and operates a new production plant for them at its Dormagen site. Up to 20 percent of the fossil raw materials previously used in these products have been replaced by carbon dioxide. A special catalyst gives the molecule the required level of reactivity.

New model for affordable housing

Providing fast, affordable and sustainable housing is a global challenge. Covestro is breaking new ground in its search for creative solutions. Together with industry partners, governments, government agencies and society, Covestro is developing models for affordable housing and running specific projects locally. One example is a multipurpose building in Bergisch Gladbach, Germany, that was planned and built by the local council, the French prefabricated building manufacturer Logelis and Covestro.

Next-generation rotor blades

In keeping with its sustainability strategy, Covestro develops materials and technologies for generating renewable energy – with a focus on wind power. The company has developed an innovative technology for manufacturing rotor blades for wind turbines. The rotors are fabricated in a special process from a polyurethane resin and a fiberglass fabric. For the resin Covestro recently received the vital DNV GL certification for China and can now supply its products to rotor blade manufacturers there.

Proud past, exciting future

Dr. Otto Bayer could only have dreamed of such developments. But even 80 years ago, he lived out Covestro’s corporate values: curious, courageous, colorful. He stubbornly pursued his goal of enhancing the efficiency of plastics manufacturing and en route discovered polyurethane chemistry, which became his passion. He even stuck to his guns when his superiors shook their heads at the bubbly mass he produced in his experiments, saying it was at most a “substitute for Swiss cheese”. Far from it! With incredible creativity he and his team discovered a whole string of potential applications.

Polyurethanes: Milestones of a success story

1937 – Otto Bayer invents polyurethane chemistry
1943 – New brands: Desmodur^® (isocyanates) and Desmophen^® (polyols)
1952 – First flexible foam made of TDI and polyester polyols
1958 – Premium coatings made of Desmodur^® and Desmophen^® (“DD coatings”)
1962 – Premiere of rigid polyurethane foam as an insulating material in refrigerators
1967 – First car with an all-plastic body at the K’67 trade show
1970 – Metal-faced sandwich panels for building envelopes
From 1970 onwards – Introduction of Baydur^® polyurethane systems for rigid integral foams
1980 – Car seats with various foam hardness levels
1990 – Viscoelastic foams open up a new dimension in comfort
1995 – Blowing agents with no HCFCs
1998 – Introduction of the Baypreg^® spray system for composites
2000 – Polyols for coatings and adhesives based on Impact™ technology
2005 – Advances in polyurethane composites
2012 – Baytherm^® Microcell for insulating refrigeration systems - CO₂ technology
2016 – Market launch of cardyon™ - First rotor blade made of polyurethane resin in Asia
In the future – continuously pushing the boundaries of innovation

About Covestro:

You can find a video at https://youtu.be/Brwl9ASvSJs.

For more information go to www.covestro.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Covestro AG management. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors include those discussed in Covestro’s public reports which are available at www.covestro.com. The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conform them to future events or developments.

Covestro expands global capacity for polyurethane dispersions

Mon, 06 Nov 2017 00:00:00 +0100

Covestro has begun operations at a new production facility for aqueous polyurethane dispersions (PUDs) at its Dormagen site. Along with a current expansion of production in Barcelona, the company is thus boosting its capacities in Europe significantly. In order to meet global demand, Covestro is also building a new facility in China, as well as planning to resume production in the United States and at the same time modernizing and expanding facilities there.

The new capacity is primarily needed to satisfy rising demand from the coatings and adhesives industry: manufacturers remain determined to replace solvent-based products with more sustainable waterborne systems that have equally good properties. Also driving the trend are regulations that require lower emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOC).

Leading in capacity and service

“With these investments, we are preparing for the continued growing demand for polyurethane dispersions as well as expanding our globally leading position,” says Michael Friede, global head of the Coatings, Adhesives, Specialties segment at Covestro. “At the same time, thanks to our diversified production, we have the flexibility to meet many different requirements.”

This diversity is also the key to the comprehensive line of polyurethane dispersions (PUDs) that Covestro offers. “Our custom-tailored products allow for many applications in very different industries,” Michael Friede explains. “In this way, we create opportunities for growth and strengthen our customers’ competitiveness.”

As the leading global supplier of PUDs, Covestro also holds a top position in research and development and in process technologies. The company provides technical service and support to customers worldwide.

Many different applications

Polyurethane dispersions can be used in a wide variety of applications. For example, products in the Bayhydrol^® UH, U and UV series and Bayhytherm^® are a component of base coats for automotive OEM and refinishing coatings, as well as a component of wood and furniture coatings and long-wearing floor coatings. Adhesives formulated with Dispercoll^®U are used in the production of furniture and shoes as well as in the automotive industry.

Under the name Impranil^®, the low-solvent raw materials also play an important role in the production of coated textiles and polyurethane synthetics. PUDs in the Baybond^® product line are used in the form of glass fiber sizings to produce robust plastic composites (glass-fiber-reinforced plastics). The film formers adhere very well to the fibers, but, in composites with thermoplastics, they are still elastic enough to ensure the necessary stability.

About Covestro:

Find more information at www.covestro.com.
Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/CovestroGroup

Forward-looking statements

First automotive refinish coating with bio-based hardener

Fri, 22 Sep 2017 00:00:00 +0200

Electric mobility and photovoltaics play a vital role in protecting the climate and conserving fossil resources. Combining them leads to even more innovative and sustainable mobility concepts. To show that these kinds of solutions are already feasible using state-of-the-art materials and technologies, a team of around 45 young researchers has developed a solar-powered electric car. Calling themselves “Team Sonnenwagen,” the students from RWTH Aachen University and Aachen University of Applied Sciences intend to enter their vehicle in the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge 2017 in Australia, probably the toughest race in the world for solar cars.

Covestro is supporting the Sonnenwagen project with materials and technical service and as a gold sponsor. The company wants to use the project to test coatings under the harsh climate conditions prevailing along the race’s route. Temperatures in the Australian desert can soar to as much as 45 degrees Celsius in October, with intense UV radiation. This time of year also typically sees a high particle concentration in the air.

Road test: automotive coating with sustainable raw material
The most important product application is a three-layer polyurethane coating from PPG, world leaders in paints, coatings and specialty materials, and experts in automotive coatings. The coating system is particularly suited to coating body parts made of carbon fiber composites. Climate conditions have a significant impact on the top clearcoat. The Sonnenwagen uses an innovative automotive refinish coating that contains Covestro’s bio-based hardener Desmodur® eco N 7300. “Some 70 percent of its carbon content comes from biomass,” explains Ulf Wentzien, global head of Industrial Marketing in the Coatings, Adhesives, Specialties Business Unit at Covestro. “This reduces the environmental footprint by around 30 percent.”

“The bio-based hardener achieved the highest sustainability standards and meets both our customers’ and our own requirements,” says Ignasi Roig, EMEA Product Platform Manager at PPG Refinish. “The coating is to the same outstanding quality as a polyurethane clearcoat with a conventionally produced hardener.”

Easy processing
The two-component coating is also impressive on the practical side. In PPG’s training center in Hilden, it was applied to the Sonnenwagen's bodywork parts under similar conditions to an automotive paint shop. The application can be viewed in a video, see https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ar0sjUc7eRE. The coating is particularly suitable for the temperature-sensitive surface of the solar-powered car as it hardens at low temperatures.

Covestro and PPG have been working together in the field of coatings development for many years now. Both partners are using the Sonnenwagen project to demonstrate the role coatings can play in sustainable mobility.

Tough test for solar cars
The World Solar Challenge is considered to be the toughest race on Earth for solar cars and this year celebrates its 30th anniversary. From October 8 to 15, 2017, approx. 40 teams from all over the world will be competing in their “homemade” vehicles to win the 3,000 kilometer race from Darwin to Adelaide – without using one drop of fuel. The Sonnenwagen from Aachen will be the only German car going to the starting line in the Challenger Class this year.

Covestro has a long-standing partnership with the RWTH Aachen University. “Through our developments and this project partnership, we are committed to future mobility and aim to show that these kinds of concepts are already feasible,” says Covestro’s Ulf Wentzien. “At the same time, we have the opportunity to inspire and support young people at universities.”

About Covestro:
With 2016 sales of EUR 11.9 billion, Covestro is among the world’s largest polymer companies. Business activities are focused on the manufacture of high-tech polymer materials and the development of innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life. The main segments served are the automotive, construction, wood processing and furniture, and electrical and electronics industries. Other sectors include sports and leisure, cosmetics, health and the chemical industry itself. Covestro has 30 production sites worldwide and employs approximately 15,600 people (calculated as full-time equivalents) at the end of 2016.

PPG: WE PROTECT AND BEAUTIFY THE WORLD™
At PPG (NYSE:PPG), we work every day to develop and deliver the paints, coatings and materials that our customers have trusted for more than 130 years. Through dedication and creativity, we solve our customers’ biggest challenges, collaborating closely to find the right path forward. With headquarters in Pittsburgh, we operate and innovate in more than 70 countries and reported net sales of $14.3 billion in 2016. We serve customers in construction, consumer products, industrial and transportation markets and aftermarkets. To learn more, visit www.ppg.com.

We protect and beautify the world is a trademark and the PPG Logo is a registered trademark of PPG Industries Ohio, Inc.

More information is available at www.covestro.com, www.ppg.com and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ar0sjUc7eRE.

Forward-looking statements
This news release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Covestro AG. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors include those discussed in Covestro’s public reports which are available at www.covestro.com. The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conform them to future events or developments.

Competent partner for medical technology

Thu, 21 Sep 2017 00:00:00 +0200

At Compamed 2017 in Düsseldorf, Germany, Covestro will be presenting itself as a key supplier of raw materials and partner to the medical technology sector. One focus of booth H30 in Hall 8b will be on Baymedix^® polyurethane raw materials for state-of-the-art wound care. These materials are breathable and enable optimal moisture management in wound dressings in addition to offering design options. Customers can create added value through innovation and differentiation, thus increasing their competitiveness.

These raw materials are used, for example, in absorbent foams manufactured from Baymedix^® FP, adhesives with skin contact made of Baymedix^® A and films based on the waterborne products Baymedix^® FD and CD. Directly coating the film with adhesive or foam decreases the number of laminating steps, and optimized drying times ensure efficiency in production. The processes are also sustainable because waste is reduced and solvents are not used.

Polycarbonates for a wide range of requirements
The polycarbonate Makrolon^® has long proven itself in the medical technology field. Its balanced properties – such as exceptional transparency and impact resistance – make it a safe and durable material for housing components.

Several variants of this material have also passed biocompatibility tests, as required for such applications, and thus meet the criteria of ISO 10993-1. Together with the polycarbonate Apec^®, which is stable at high temperatures, Makrolon^® medical technology products are suitable for various forms of sterilization.

Wearables with intelligence and comfort
Digitalization is now common in many areas of medical technology. For example, one important trend is the use of wearables – small electronic devices that are affixed to the skin like a patch, providing support for consumers participating in sports and leisure activities or treating medical conditions. In view of their enormous market potential, Compamed is presenting these devices separately at booth A23 in Hall 15.

There, Covestro will showcase integrated and sustainable materials solutions that increase the comfort of electronic patches and provide additional areas of application. In addition to standard functions, such as measuring heart rate, in the future they will also help with medical diagnoses and treatments and deliver medications in accurate dosages. This would require them to remain on the skin for extended periods and be comfortable to wear. With the help of an intelligent combination of materials, Covestro is able to produce wearables that cling gently to the skin, and are also breathable and hypoallergenic.

Versatile TPU films
Platilon^® TPU blown film is sought after in medical applications, due to its comfort, e.g. breathability, stretch, soft haptics, hypoallergenics, design (e.g. printable, colors) and customisation to fit the converter’s production process, e.g. thickness range, tailored carriers and release force. Additional functionality includes low melting (95-105 deg C) or water vapor barrier.

About Covestro:
With 2016 sales of EUR 11.9 billion, Covestro is among the world’s largest polymer companies. Business activities are focused on the manufacture of high-tech polymer materials and the development of innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life. The main segments served are the automotive, construction, wood processing and furniture, and electrical and electronics industries. Other sectors include sports and leisure, cosmetics, health and the chemical industry itself. Covestro has 30 production sites worldwide and employs approximately 15,600 people (calculated as full-time equivalents) at the end of 2016.

Find more information at www.covestro.com.

Forward-Looking Statements
This release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Covestro AG. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors include those discussed in Covestro's public reports, which are available on the Covestro website at www.covestro.com. The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conform them to future events or developments.

Innovative materials for electric mobility

Mon, 12 Jun 2017 00:00:00 +0200

How can we make the mobility of the future as sustainable as possible? A group of highly motivated students at RWTH Aachen University and Aachen University of Applied Sciences posed this question and, to find out, dedicated their efforts to an ambitious project: the development of a solar-powered electric car for what is likely to be the toughest solar car race in the world, the World Solar Challenge 2017 from October 8 to 15 in Australia. To make their idea a reality, the approximately 45 junior researchers established the “Sonnenwagen Aachen e.V.” association, with the support of their professors.

Covestro, a leading global supplier of innovative and sustainable material solutions, shares the students’ enthusiasm and wants to join forces with them to push existing boundaries and make the project a success. The company has cultivated a long-term partnership with the distinguished university and is supporting the “Sonnenwagen” (German for “solar car”) project as both a material and technical service provider and Gold Sponsor. The two partners recently signed a cooperation agreement for the project.

Partnership for solar mobility
“As sustainability is part of our strategy, we support this ambitious project, in which young researchers want to show that innovative and sustainable mobility concepts are already possible today,” says Dr. Markus Steilemann, Board Member for Innovation and Chief Commercial Officer of Covestro. “Solar mobility can make a key contribution to protecting the climate and conserving fossil resources. With our developments and this project partnership, we want to demonstrate our commitment to innovation and sustainability, but also to supporting junior talents.”

Hendrik Löbberding, First Chairman of Team Sonnenwagen, welcomes the new partner: “We are very grateful for Covestro’s support and will benefit above all from its superior competence in materials.” The Leverkusen-based company already has gained extensive experience using its innovative materials for solar mobility: As an official partner of the Solar Impulse project, it made a significant contribution to the success of the first manned flight around the globe in an aircraft powered exclusively by solar energy.

Road test: automotive coating with bio-based hardener
Covestro wants to take advantage of the Sonnenwagen project to test various materials under the harsh climate conditions prevailing along the race’s route: temperatures of up to 45 degrees Celsius, high UV radiation and a high air dust content are typical there in October. The most important product application is a three-layer polyurethane coating from PPG, a leading global manufacturer of automotive coatings. The coating is particularly suited to application on body parts made of carbon fiber composites.

The climate conditions have a significant impact on the top clearcoat. It is formulated with the bio-based hardener Desmodur^® eco N 7300 from Covestro, 70 percent of whose carbon content is sourced from biomass.

The Sonnenwagen further incorporates polyurethane and polycarbonate materials from Covestro, which contribute to the lightweight and aerodynamic design of the solar car.

Acid test for solar cars
The World Solar Challenge is considered to be the toughest solar race on earth and celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. Teams from all over the world compete every two years in their homemade vehicles to win the 3,000 kilometer race from Darwin to Adelaide – without using one drop of fuel.

The Sonnenwagen from Aachen will be the only German car going to the starting line in the Challenger Class this year. The team is very optimistic about its chances in the race: “We already have experience with zero-emission mobility and feel well-equipped to take part in the competition with the roughly 40 other teams from five continents,” says Hendrik Löbberding of Sonnenwagen Aachen team.

Two members of the association raced an electric car in, and won, the e-CROSS Germany, a four-day, climate-neutral rally through North Rhine-Westphalia. One month prior, the Sonnenwagen members accompanied a team from Bochum in the European Solar Challenge 2016, a 24-hour race in solar cars.

About Covestro:
With 2016 sales of EUR 11.9 billion, Covestro is among the world’s largest polymer companies. Business activities are focused on the manufacture of high-tech polymer materials and the development of innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life. The main segments served are the automotive, construction, wood processing and furniture, and electrical and electronics industries. Other sectors include sports and leisure, cosmetics, health and the chemical industry itself. Covestro, formerly Bayer MaterialScience, has 30 production sites worldwide and employs approximately 15,600 people (calculated as full-time equivalents) at the end of 2016.

About Sonnenwagen Aachen:
Sonnenwagen Aachen exists as a registered association since September 2015 and consists of 40 committed students from RWTH Aachen University and FH Aachen University of Applied Science. The aim is to construct a solar-powered electric vehicle and participate in the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge in October 2017 - an emission-free race across the outback of Australia. As the only German team in the Challenger class, Sonnenwagen Aachen will compete on the 3022 km track with other international teams. By participating in the race Sonnenwagen Aachen wants to raise awareness for sustainable mobility and contribute to the development of the corresponding technologies themselves.

Find more information at www.covestro.com, www.sonnenwagen.org, www.worldsolarchallenge.org and http://ppgrefinish.com/.
Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/CovestroGroup

Forward-looking statements
This news release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Covestro AG. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors include those discussed in Covestro’s public reports which are available at www.covestro.com. The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conform them to future events or developments.

Covestro boosts furniture coating efficiency

Tue, 14 Mar 2017 00:00:00 +0100

The furniture market is growing worldwide. In light of the intense competition, manufacturers are facing increasing pressure to react more flexibly and shorten lead times. This is also true for industrial furniture and parquet coating, where there is a constant need to balance speed and quality.

At the 2017 European Coatings Show, Covestro is presenting Bayhydrol® UV 2877, a new, fast-curing dispersion offering great flexibility when used in UV curing, one- and two-component coating systems. It can be used in both pigmented and clearcoat formulations, and is equally suitable for both topcoats and primers.

Significantly higher productivity
“Drying is up to 50 percent faster than with a high-performance standard product,” said Dr. Berta Vega Sánchez, marketing manager for furniture coatings and adhesives at Covestro. “The coating achieves good properties even in shaded areas without the need to add an additional hardener, which is equally beneficial to coating formulators and parts manufacturers.”

Furniture manufacturers gain design freedom, since three-dimensional parts with shaded areas can be coated to a high level of quality. One-component UV coatings are easy to handle, there is no pot life to consider and there is less waste than with standard systems.

Ecological advantages
The waterborne coatings require no reactive thinner and emit lower amounts of volatile organic compounds (VOC) than standard systems, allowing for more favorable labeling. The lower dependence on UV quality means that either processors can reduce the UV dosage or coatings formulators can reduce the amount of photo initiator, which is a real cost advantage.

Coating formulations with Bayhydrol® UV 2877 have a dual curing mechanism: In the first step, self-crosslinking occurs while the coating releases water. This results in tack-free coating films with good mechanical properties and stain resistance even before UV curing. Subsequent curing with UV radiation gives the coatings their chemical resistance and hardness.

Visit us at the European Coatings Show 2017 from April 4 to 6 in Nuremberg, Hall 4A, Booth 4A-528.

About Covestro:
With 2016 sales of EUR 11.9 billion, Covestro is among the world’s largest polymer companies. Business activities are focused on the manufacture of high-tech polymer materials and the development of innovative solutions for products used in many areas of daily life. The main segments served are the automotive, electrical and electronics, construction and the sports and leisure industries. Covestro, formerly Bayer MaterialScience, has 30 production sites around the globe and employs approximately 15,600 people (full-time equivalents) as of the end of 2016.

This press release is available for download from the Covestro press server at www.covestro.com. Photos are available there for download as well. Please mind the source of the pictures.

Find more information at www.covestro.com.
Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/CovestroGroup

Forward-looking statements
This news release may contain forward-looking statements based on current assumptions and forecasts made by Covestro AG. Various known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors could lead to material differences between the actual future results, financial situation, development or performance of the company and the estimates given here. These factors include those discussed in Covestro’s public reports which are available at www.covestro.com. The company assumes no liability whatsoever to update these forward-looking statements or to conform them to future events or developments.