WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The Polyurethanes 2011 Technical Conference is going green as speakers discuss ways polyurethanes can help maximize energy efficiency and reduce other environmental challenges in construction. Hosted by the Center for the Polyurethanes Industry (CPI) of the American Chemistry Council, the Polyurethanes 2011 Technical Conference will take place September 26 to 28 at the Gaylord Opryland Hotel in Nashville, Tenn. This years conference agenda features two technical sessions on construction-related topics, with a special issue session on building codes.

"New building codes increasingly require more stringent energy efficiency measures, and the polyurethane industry is keeping in step," said Lee Salamone, senior director of CPI. "Conference attendees can look forward to hearing about how innovations in polyurethane are helping the construction industry comply with these new code requirements."

The second building and construction technical session will highlight how advances in formulation component technologies - specifically spray polyurethane foam insulation - can significantly increase energy efficiency and decrease environmental footprint in both commercial and residential buildings.

• Researchers from DuPont will begin the session with a life-cycle look at spray foam expansion agents.
• Scientists from Evonik will focus on the impact of silicone surfactants on the stability of water-blown spray polyurethane foam.
• Scientists from Honeywell will discuss the companys next generation low GWP blowing agents for global spray foam applications.
• Researchers from Arkema Inc. will present an investigation of a new low GWP blowing agent for spray foam.
• Caleb Management Services Limited will end the session with an international view on trends in the selection of next generation blowing agents.

The 2011 conference also features a special issue session on building codes. Codes and standards experts from the polyurethanes industry will address a variety of issues, including recent building code changes, the standard development process and updates to green codes, standards and certifications.

CPI will also offer its popular Polyurethane Professional Development Program at the conference, with course topics ranging from introductory polyurethane chemistry and technology to physical testing and raw materials. In addition, CPI will present its annual Polyurethane Innovation Award and host tabletop exhibitions where companies can showcase their products.