19. Jun 2026
Econic launches CO₂-based polyols for polyurethane dispersions
UK-based renewable carbon specialist Econic Technologies has introduced a new range of carbon dioxide-based polyols for polyurethane dispersions (PUDs), targeting coatings applications with a combination of lower carbon footprint and improved performance.
The company announced on June 17 that its new polycarbonate ether (PCE) polyols are manufactured using captured CO₂ and are intended as drop-in replacements for conventional polyether polyols, polytetramethylene glycols (PTMEG) and polycarbonate glycols.
According to Econic, the materials provide substrate adhesion, durability and resistance to UV exposure and water comparable with, or better than, incumbent technologies. The polyols are colourless and odourless and enable formulators to adjust performance characteristics by varying the amount of carbon dioxide incorporated into the polymer structure.
The company said the materials have a carbon footprint up to 30% lower than conventional polyols and can be used either on their own or alongside recycled and bio-based polyols to create fossil-free formulations.
"PCE polyols go beyond sustainability. We’re setting a new standard of performance. With our technology, coatings companies can deliver an even better customer experience that just happens to have a lower carbon footprint. On top of that, carbon dioxide is abundant and affordable, giving manufacturers a way to hedge their supply chains against the kind of volatility the industry has weathered before and will again,” said Econic chief executive officer Keith Wiggins.
The new products are aimed at helping manufacturers address Scope 3 emissions targets while reducing dependence on hydrocarbon feedstocks.
Econic licenses its technology to polyol manufacturers in North America and Asia, including Monument Chemical in the US and Changhua Chemical in China. Both companies are currently producing PCE polyols for use in PUD formulations.
The company is also developing Recreaire, a platform technology for carbon dioxide-based surfactants.
The launch expands Econic's portfolio of CO₂-derived polyurethane raw materials and represents the latest application for the company's renewable carbon technology in coatings and adhesives markets.
Photo credit: Econic Technologies