Sustainable polyurethane alternatives without hazardous isocyanates

Innovation & Approach
SUPERNATURE develops safe and sustainable polyurethane alternatives as an alternative to isocyanates in the chemistry toolbox. The project focuses on the development of renewable and recycled cyclic carbonate building blocks, including lignin-derived bioaromatic precursors, and on understanding how molecular design governs material performance in foams, coatings, and adhesives. By integrating early (eco)toxicological screening and techno-economic assessment into the research workflow, SUPERNATURE ensures that newly developed materials are not only high-performing, but also safe, sustainable, and industrially viable.

Design & Validation of NIPU Materials
SUPERNATURE aims to translate newly developed NIPU chemistries to application-level validation. The project will develop and optimizes formulations for rigid foams and CASE applications, benchmarking their performance against industrial reference materials. Through iterative formulation, testing, and optimization in close collaboration with industrial partners, SUPERNATURE aims to deliver NIPU materials combining mechanical robustness, durability, and processing compatibility, while offering improved environmental and health profiles. This approach ensures readiness for industrial uptake and future market implementation.