In polyurethane systems, the formulated polyol blend (B-side) combines polyols, catalysts, silicone surfactants, flame retardants, and physical blowing agents. Chemical interactions among these raw materials during extended storage can degrade system reactivity, altering processing behavior and final foam cell metrics.
This stability drift has become a critical challenge as foam manufacturers transition away from legacy hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) to fourth-generation hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) blowing agents with low global warming potential (low-GWP).
Foranext Continuum is engineered to mitigate reactivity drift in systems utilizing non-flammable liquid blowing agent Forane FBA 1233zd. Arkema has not publicly released technical specifics regarding recommended addition levels, quantitative shelf-life extensions, or comparative physical properties.
Industrial Synergies with Calvert City HFO Output
The additive rollout complements Arkema’s supply chain investments for 1233zd, supported by the commissioning of a 15,000-tonne-per-year production unit in Calvert City, Kentucky. The group invested nearly $60 million to convert a legacy HFC production train at the site to supply the lower-GWP blowing agent.
Frédéric Gauvard (Group President for Fluorogases, Arkema):
As customers continue to advance their transition to HFO-based technologies, they are looking for solutions that deliver value beyond the blowing agent itself. Foranext Continuum additive reflects our commitment to helping customers improve formulation consistency and enhance operational efficiency.
