Researchers Develop Bio-Based Polyurethane

Pullman, WA, April 16, 2015—Researchers at Washington State University have developed a new way to use plant oils, like olive and linseed oils, to create polyurethane, which is used as, among other things, a sealant for hardwood floors.

Phys.org reports that while polyurethane is tough and corrosion resistant, the researchers sought an environmentally friendly alternative to the standard product, which is petroleum based.

About 14 million tons of polyurethane was produced in 2010, and production is expected to increase by 30% in 2016, according to Phys.org.