Arkema Launched Additive to Improve Foam Stability
Manufacturers of rigid polyurethane foam can now use new additives to maintain shelf consistency while shifting to low-GWP blowing agents.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Consumer Goods
Arkema has launched its Foranext Continuum additive to stabilize B-side components in polyurethane systems. The product is designed to help manufacturers maintain performance standards as they transition to Forane 1233zd blowing agents.
Why it matters
As regulatory pressures push manufacturers toward lower-global-warming-potential blowing agents, firms face challenges in maintaining foam consistency and shelf life. This additive addresses those performance trade-offs, allowing for stability in new formulations.
Arkema manages a 15-kiloton production capacity at its Calvert City, Kentucky unit for Forane 1233zd. This facility supports global availability of the new additive as firms scale their use of low-GWP blowing agents.
The players
Arkema
A global specialty materials company that designs and manufactures polymers, additives, and high-performance materials for various industrial sectors.
The details
The Foranext Continuum additive functions by improving the shelf stability of the B-side component in rigid polyurethane foam formulations. By maintaining consistency over time, the additive helps prevent degradation that often occurs when manufacturers switch to newer, lower-global-warming-potential blowing agents like Forane 1233zd. This allows operators to meet environmental targets without sacrificing the physical integrity of their final foam products.
Timeline
September 28, 2026: The additive launch was reported.
Market Landscape
The introduction of this additive follows the industry-wide transition to lower-global-warming-potential blowing agents. Arkema's move mirrors a broader trend where suppliers are releasing specific chemical stabilizers to address the performance inconsistencies inherent in new environmental regulations.
Operators using polyurethane foam systems should evaluate whether their current B-side formulations require additional stabilization during the transition to low-GWP agents. Consider testing the impact of these additives on your shelf-life metrics to ensure consistent end-product quality.
The takeaway
Maintaining product consistency while navigating environmental compliance remains a critical operational hurdle for foam manufacturers. Operators should review their existing B-side formulation stability data against the performance specifications of the new Foranext Continuum additive.
Further reading
For broader insights on industry shifts, visit the Consumer Goods section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by MyChesCo.
