Dow Says New Backing Technology Aids Recycling

Midland, MI, March 16, 2009--Dow Chemical said that it has addressed one of the limitations to producing recyclable carpet with Hypod Polyolefin Dispersions technology for backings.

The new technology, applicable to modular carpet, broadloom, thermo-moldable products and artificial turf, allows carpet manufacturers to apply a thermoplastic backing, rather than a thermoset backing, while still using conventional coating equipment.

Unlike many traditional carpet backing technologies, Hypod Polyolefin Dispersions are thermoplastic, which tends to be more compatible with carpet fibers and can facilitate easier recycling at the end of the carpet's life, Dow said.

"With more than seven billion pounds of carpet disposed of in North America and Europe together each year, enhancing the recyclability of carpet can have a huge environmental and economic impact," said Mike Levinson, commercial director, Dow Ventures & Business Development.

Thermoplastic backings also use less material, which may help preserve resources and energy and result in a lighter weight carpeting, Dow said.

A lighter weight product typically requires less cost and fuel for shipping and allows for easier installation.

"In many commercial broadloom applications, Hypod Polyolefin Dispersions require about 20 percent less material per unit of carpeting, facilitates easier recycling, has excellent physical properties and provides differentiation in the marketplace," said Todd Crook, global marketing manager, Dow Flooring.