Colombia. In addition to being one of the sectors that consumes the most resources, construction is also a champion in the generation of waste that affects the environment.
It is an issue that should attract attention because, in Colombia alone, it is estimated that by 2050 there will be more than 61 million inhabitants and it is projected that 5.6 million additional homes will be required in urban centers, according to data from the National Planning Department.
To counteract all the impact on the environment that involves putting buildings on their feet, the construction industry is betting on the implementation of technologies that, in addition to providing productivity, are significant in reducing waste at the site of the work. "The main innovations in the sector are on the way to the replacement of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which are conventionally used as expansion agents in foams, with greener alternatives," explains Daniel Flórez, consultant in BASF's Performance Materials business for Colombia, Ecuador and Venezuela.
Precisely, looking for this replacement, solutions have been developed such as Polyurethane foams, materials that are standing out in the construction industry for their versatility, the savings and productivity options it offers. In addition, they are modern and sustainable solutions ideal not only for new constructions, but for restoration and repair projects. "The polyurethane foams from BASF's ElastoSpray line, applied on-site in the form of a spray, offer superior thermal insulation and guarantee environmental protection, thus meeting the demand for fast, simple, economical and sustainable construction methods," says Flórez.
Another example of successful work between innovation and sustainability is the case of isothermal construction systems in polyurethane sandwich panels, a system that adapts to various types of construction projects with the recommended parts in the exact measurements, guaranteeing low waste generation. Polyurethane sandwich panels manufactured with BASF's Elastopir product lines have very low thermal conductivity levels compared to conventional materials used for thermal insulation and ensure compliance with the most demanding flame retardance standards on the market.
This type of materials is being used in large projects such as industrial sheds and large works accommodation, but can also be applied in constructions of housing complexes. "The use of this type of innovation has allowed the waste rate of the material to be only 0.5%, which represents eight times less losses than the traditional system," explains Flórez.
In addition to its good results in the efficiency of materials, the commitment to implement solutions of this type allows a relevant economy of natural resources, since water is not necessary at any stage of the production process; from the factory to the installation on site.
This eagerness to find solutions that reduce waste, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and the sustainable use of resources meet the Regulation of the European Union that seeks a two-thirds cut in emissions of fluorinated gases, which have high potential for global warming, until 2030.
