NOK Develops New Bio-PU for Hydraulic Sealing

NOK Corp has developed a new biomass-based material for polyurethane elastomer packings, featuring a plant-derived content of 48% and reducing CO2 emissions during raw material production by a similar level. The biomaterial retains the rubber elasticity and resin toughness of conventional PU elastomer products, making it suitable for hydraulic equipment using biodegradable hydraulic fluid. This new material achieves ‘carbon neutrality’ through high biomass content and supports a ‘circular economy’ through compatibility with biodegradable hydraulic fluid. The company overcame challenges such as stable moulding and curing, and maintaining performance characteristics, by leveraging its ‘integrated technology platform’. Target applications for the packing material include construction machinery and other equipment operating in environmentally sensitive areas. The composition of the bio-based polyurethane was not specified in NOK’s statement.