ClimateJuly 10, 2026

polyurethane

/ˌpɒliˈjʊərəθeɪn/

Definition

A versatile synthetic plastic polymer, often produced as a foam, coating, or insulation material, now being innovatively developed using captured carbon-based ingredients.

Etymology

The word is a chemical compound formed from 'poly-' (Greek for 'many'), referring to its polymer structure, and 'urethane' (a derivative of urea). 'Urea' itself comes from the Latin 'urina', reflecting the initial chemical synthesis from organic compounds.

In the news

In the article, the author highlights polyurethane as a key consumer and industrial product that could utilize captured carbon dioxide through carbon-based polyols. This application helps diversify supply chains by shifting away from traditional fossil-fuel-derived inputs.

Beyond Storage: How Captured Carbon Can Be Utilized

Read the full article ↗

Bipartisan Policy Center

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