Arkema launched Foranext Continuum on 23 September 2026, a low viscosity additive for rigid polyurethane foam formulations that contain its Forane FBA 1233zd blowing agent. Arkema says the additive improves the shelf stability of the polyol blend and helps keep the formulation consistent over time.
The applications Arkema names are insulation, roofing, appliances and other rigid foam uses. The launch follows the recent start of a new 15 kiloton Forane 1233zd production unit in Calvert City, Kentucky, and the additive is available worldwide through Arkema's fluorochemicals business.
Frédéric Gauvard, Group President Fluorogases at Arkema, said that as customers continue their move to HFO based technologies, "they are looking for solutions that deliver value beyond the blowing agent itself".
Shelf life of the polyol blend is a practical issue for HFO blown rigid systems, which are used where blowing agents with low global warming potential are required, including panels and appliances. Additives aimed at blend stability are relevant to any system house that ships premixed polyol blends over long distances.