The Dow Chemical Company has solemnly announced that it will reduce the use of mercury in polyurethane elastomer catalyzed processes.

    In addition, the company's Dow Formulations business unit is preparing to launch a new line of Hyperlast and Diprane elastomers. The business unit in BirchVale, UK, will use a polymer backbone that has been successfully improved in material processing and final properties. Dow will introduce the latest catalytic elastomers at Utech Europe 2012 in Maastrict, the Netherlands, from April 17th to 19th.

    Dow aims to meet the restrictions on five phenylmercury-containing substances in European Commission Regulation 2907/2006 (commonly known as REACH in Europe).

    Dow hopes to ensure the long-term supply of its elastomeric product family by complying with REACH regulations. Dow has also formulated a one-component elastomer Monothane polyurethane system material in accordance with REACH regulations.