Alternatives to Landfilling Polyurethane Scrap Materials

Liquid Compounds

• Various types of coatings, sealers and adhesives contain liquid polyurethane in order to increase the durability or the product. Disposal of polyurethane liquid compounds must occur through properly licensed companies. Many cities throughout the U.S. offer sites for environmental waste disposal. You also have the option to solidify the liquid using a hardener, according to manufacturer's instructions. Some urethane compounds generate large amounts of heat while reacting with hardeners, and may self-ignite. Perform solidification methods in heat resistant, steel containers and away from combustible materials. Dispose of solidified urethane in an industrial garbage facility.

Foam Products

• Many product such as bedding, furniture, automobile interiors, carpet underlay and packaging contain flexible polyurethane foam. Rigid foam products include energy-efficient insulation. As an insulating foam, polyurethane cuts fuel and construction costs and makes building safer. It is safe to dispose of polyurethane foam scraps in landfills but the best option is to find a waste-to-energy combustion facility, also known as an incinerator facility.

Thermoplastics

• Thermoplastic polyurethane is highly elastic, flexible and resistant to marring, impact and climate. This type of polyurethane reacts with injection molding to produce car bumpers, electrical housing panels, computer enclosures, medical equipment and a myriad of other products. Many polyurethane production facilities are realizing the benefits of reclaiming discarded products through recycling.

Polyurethane Recycle and Recovery Council

• The Polyurethane Recycle and Recovery Council (PURRC), in alliance with the Polyurethanes Industry (API), focuses on recycling initiatives such as vehicle recycling and the Glycolysis Project. The Glycolysis Project uses a chemical process to glycolyze mixed polyurethanes. Chemical recycling yields materials that form to make new polyurethane polymers that contain nearly original properties and functionality.

What You Can Do

• Recycle polyurethane scrap materials whenever possible. To find recycling centers in your area contact epa.gov, earth911.org or your state's environmental agency's website. Such recycling center may take items such as mattresses, clothing, furniture, shoes, construction materials, appliances and carpet padding.