Ecological and health impact of polyurethane rigid foam

According to the tests of the impact of polyurethane rigid foam on human health, BASF Polyurethane Systems has confirmed that even under the worst conditions, toxicological evaluation revealed no hazards.

Polyurethane is produced by the reaction of diisocyanates with polyfunctional alcohols. Depending on the final use different additives as tertiary amine catalysts, fillers and flame retardants may be present. Polyurethane used in several applications is regarded as being uncritical to health (p.e. flexible foam in mattresses, integral skin foam seating, arm rests). Some grades are in use in articles for intended food contact.