#Japan #Nagoya #Polyurethane Foam #Inoac Corporation #rePURous

Inoac Corporation's Revolutionary Recycling Journey

Inoac Corporation, a leading company in the chemical material industry, has achieved a remarkable breakthrough in recycling polyurethane foam. For years, recycling polyurethane has presented challenges due to its thermosetting nature, which limits the options for processing waste materials. However, Inoac has successfully developed a comprehensive chemical recycling system that transforms production scrap into recycled polyurethane foam with properties equivalent to that of the original material.

Overcoming Industry Challenges

In Japan, there has been a clear separation between raw material manufacturers and foam producers, making the establishment of a comprehensive chemical recycling system particularly difficult. Inoac's innovative approach involves a proprietary demonstration machine that allows them to chemically decompose and regenerate their own production waste. This process breaks down the existing barriers within the industry and provides a new circular model that enables the complete recycling of polyurethane foam, from raw material to final product, all within their own facilities.

The Development of rePURous™

Previously, Inoac focused on material recycling products named “Mixel®,” created from crushing and molding production scraps. However, some waste materials were unsuitable for this recycling method and had to be disposed of. This prompted Inoac to undertake research into chemical recycling with the goal of recycling all types of production waste. After extensive investigation into material blends and equipment, the company successfully transitioned waste into raw material through experimental testing.

The newly developed foam has been branded as “rePURous™,” a name that symbolizes the integration of polyurethane (PUR) and the concept of regeneration (re). This branding encapsulates the company’s commitment to “regeneration, circulation, and connection.” Inoac aims to position rePURous™ as a hallmark of its environmental initiatives while enhancing awareness and creating added value for recycled materials, ultimately demonstrating their dedication to reducing environmental impact.

Future Prospects

Currently, Inoac is focusing on establishing mass production systems for the scrap generated within their facilities. Looking forward, they have ambitions to develop methods for recycling used polyurethane foam that has reached the end of its lifespan. This may include exploring collection and disassembly methods for products such as mattresses, working towards further resource circulation expansion.

Since polyurethane foam is primarily produced from finite fossil fuels, by actively utilizing recycled materials, Inoac aims to decrease fossil fuel consumption and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to a more sustainable society. The company recognizes its role as a manufacturing entity that utilizes resources effectively and is committed to collaborating with municipalities and other polyurethane manufacturers to establish a circular model that encompasses collection and resource regeneration, thus advancing the Green Transformation (GX) initiative.

Company Background

Inoac Corporation is recognized as a pioneering leader in polyurethane foam production in Japan. Not only specializing in polyurethane, the company harnesses extensive polymer chemistry expertise to innovate rubber, plastics, and composite materials, thus leading the manufacturing industry globally. Inoac develops high-functioning materials tailored to diverse applications, ultimately supporting the enriched lives of individuals through solution services across various sectors including automotive, IT devices, construction, and everyday consumer products.

For more information, you can visit the official website here or check their social media accounts Instagram.