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Biocyanate - Isocyanates
Novomer is developing Biocyanate isocyanates. These plant-based or renewable isocyanates are organic compounds that contain at least one isocyanate group, a functional group with the formula R-N=C=O. Novomer produces isocyanates through a novel route that does not require environmentally dangerous phosgene.
The isocyanate family has a large and diverse set of applications. The primary application of isocyanates is the production of polyurethane products. They are formed by reacting a diisocyanate or polyisocyanate with a polyhydroxyl, in the presence of catalysts and additives to create polyurethanes. Aside from polyurethanes, isocyanates are also used in paints, flooring, medical applications, and more.
The most produced isocyanate is methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI). This compound is used to produce rigid foams, commonly used as insulation for refrigerators and buildings. The second most produced isocyanate, toluene diisocyanate (TDI) is used to produce flexible foams, often seen in furniture, bedding, and packaging. Both MDI and TDI are also used to produce coatings, adhesives and sealants, among others. Another subset of isocyanates, called aliphatic diisocyanates, are often used as an intermediate in the production of polyisocyanates. These are often used to produce polyurethane coatings and elastomers. These polyurethane coatings tend to be more color stable than MDI and TDI polyurethanes, which tend to be sensitive to UV light. Additionally, they are very resistant to abrasion and weathering.