ILIGAN CITY, Philippines—Researchers at Mindanao State University have won funding for three years to carry out research into polyols from bio-based sources.
The researchers aim to develop highly functional polyols and bio-products for rigid polyurethane insulation, packaging foam, and both waterborne and anti-corrosion coatings.
In addition to funding from the Philippines Council for Industrial Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development, Chemrez Technologies and Nueveon Specialties are collaborating in the project.
"One of our innovations provides baseline data and methods for the commercialization of biomass-based polyols in phase 1 and polyurethane insulation sheets in phase 2," said Arnold Lubguban, who is leading the research team.
He said the research focuses on using environmentally friendly processes.
"It is also characterized by reduced production costs because the raw materials are available as by-products or waste products," he said.
This year, the project will focus on scaling up pilot production to 40 liters.
