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What is polyurethane?

The term 'rigid polyurethane insulation' covers the family of insulation materials based on PUR (polyurethane) or PIR (polyisocyanurate).

Polyurethane is a generic term, which covers a wide range of different formulations. The main linkage formed during polymerisation is the urethane group, but other linkages such as isocyanurate, urea, and others may be introduced to a varying degree.

Isocyanurate modified polyurethane foams, for example, generally show better heat resistance, lower volatiles production and better char formation than standard PUR. We call them PIR.