Monument Launches the First US Production of Renewable-Carbon Polyols

Monument has commenced the first US-based production of polyols derived from renewable carbon at its Brandenburg, Kentucky facility, marking a significant milestone for the polyurethane industry. Using Econic Technologies’ proprietary process, the company’s new Poly-CO₂ range of polycarbonate ether (PCE) polyols incorporates captured CO₂ in place of fossil feedstocks, enabling a 20–30% reduction in global warming potential.

These polyols can be used to manufacture high-performance polyurethanes for sectors including furniture and mattresses, automotive components, footwear and apparel, and various coatings, adhesives, sealants, and elastomers. By integrating carbon at the molecular level, Poly-CO₂ can enhance resilience in mattress foams, boost durability in coatings, and improve performance across foam, flame lamination, adhesive, and elastomer applications.

The product line also offers strong environmental advantages: it supports circularity by keeping carbon in use, lowers the carbon footprint of end products, and can be combined with recycled and bio-based polyols while remaining compatible with emerging recycling systems. Econic’s technology additionally addresses handling and formulation challenges often associated with CO₂-based materials, ensuring that manufacturers can maintain the use of standard surfactants and catalysts, while achieving consistent polymer structure, quality, and stability.

Launching at pilot scale, with commercial volumes planned for the coming years, the initiative reflects Monument’s commitment to innovation and overcoming barriers typically faced by new technology entrants. Company representatives emphasised the importance of this advancement for accelerating industry progress toward net-zero and demonstrating leadership in sustainable materials.

Econic Technologies highlighted Monument’s pioneering role as the first American firm to commercialise renewable-carbon polyols, positioning customers to gain competitive advantage as global markets shift toward more sustainable product portfolios.

Source: Monument Chemical