MIDLAND, Mich. — Dow polyurethanes will be featured in much of the Olympic Village and a number of buildings in the 2018 Winter Olympics.
PyeongChang, South Korea, will be home to the 2018 Winter Olympic Games Feb. 9-25. The the average February temperature in PyeongChang is just above freezing.
Dow's Polymeric MDI is used to make PIR insulation for parts of the Olympic Village. This will also insulate the walls and roofs of modular houses for drivers. The drivers will transport people around the host city.
The houses are made from panels consisting of boards and insulation foam. They can be constructed within hours for less than half of the usual cost. Dow said they consume half the energy to build, compared to expanded polystyrene structures. The PU structures are 98 percent recyclable, Dow added.
"We've worked with South Korean partners such as SY Panel to create the next generation of cost-effective, sustainable modular houses using insulation technology," said Philip Oh, Asia-Pacific commercial director for Dow Olympic & Sports Solutions.
"Some of the mattresses in the Olympic village" and "in a number of hotels," will use the polyol, Dow added.
"By collaborating with Alfome, part of Serim TTC we are able to help offer athletes the foundation for a good night's rest," Oh said.