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Boosting building performance with more sustainable solutions

Our Desmodur® MDI enables PUR/PIR insulation boards using up to 100x less energy during production than they help to save during their lifecycle and enable flexibility for buildings with modern design demands. Makrolon® polycarbonate used in PC sheets is lightweight, transparent and impact resistant.
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PUR/PIR insulation boards and polycarbonate sheets: the best for your building

Performance without compromise

With outstanding thermal conductivity, PUR/PIR insulation enables thinner insulation layers while maintaining excellent performance – up to 50 % of space are saved compared to conventional insulation. This allows buildings to meet the highest energy efficiency standards and reduces operational costs tied to heating and cooling.

Transparent polycarbonate sheets fulfill multiple requirements in industrial and construction. They are lightweight, tough and energy efficient, with a wide range of colours and degrees of transparency. A perfect fit for roofing and facades, light panels and skylights.

Environmental impact and sustainability

As part of STADTQUARTIER 2050, a climate-neutral housing project in Germany, high-performance insulation boards from puren –based on our raw materials – help meet strict energy standards like KfW 40 Plus. The slim, durable boards reduce energy use and embodied carbon, save space inside buildings, and lower resource consumption. The project sets a strong example for more sustainable, affordable urban housing in Europe.

See how PUR/PIR enables climate neutrality and affordable living in this lighthouse project
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Project is lighthouse model of the German Government. Covestro cooperates with project partner and insulation company puren. Resource-saving and recyclable insulation material

Design flexibility and efficiency

From compact urban developments to complex renovations, our materials are engineered for efficiency. PUR/PIR insulation made from our Desmodur® MDI offers lightweight properties and easy installation that streamline construction workflows, while Makrolon® PC sheets provide unmatched design versatility – including customizable transparency, colour and form – enabling architects to shape both the function and feel of a space.

Renovating the past for the future

Transforming historic buildings

Historic buildings are both treasures and challenges. Many need better insulation. Our PU foam, which is applied in PUR/PIR insulation, enables renovations that maintain architectural integrity while meeting modern energy standards. Our PUR/PIR insulation enables renovations that maintain architectural integrity while meeting modern energy standards. 

Insulation that performs on every level

By reducing heating and cooling demands by up to 70%, PUR/PIR insulation lowers operational costs over the building’s lifespan. This affordability, combined with enhanced energy efficiency, supports more sustainable, cost-effective housing solutions. Ideal for both new buildings and retrofits – from urban housing to historic landmarks.

Curious? Check out the FAQs!

How does the performance of PU insulation compare to that of other insulation materials?

Due to their outstanding lambda value, PU foams insulate with much less material, saving resources and space. Compared to traditionally employed insulation materials, like EPS or Stone Wool, the insulation layer can be 30 to 50% thinner.

How does PU insulation contribute to energy savings in buildings?

During the building’s life cycle, PU insulation can save up to 100 times more energy than the energy used for its manufacturing. Furthermore, PU insulation can reduce the heating and cooling demand by up to 70% in poorly insulated buildings, with a very thin insulation layer, being the perfect solution for renovation.

Can PU foam sheets be used in both new construction and retrofits?

Yes, PU insulation can be applied for existing and new buildings. The material can be easily cut and adapted to different types of buildings and surfaces, without losing performance.

What are the benefits of using PU in terms of design flexibility?

PU foams can be easily adapted to different building shapes and surfaces, allowing a high level of flexibility and creativity to planners and builders.

How does PU insulation support housing affordability?

The thinner insulation layer from PU insulation allows more space savings when compared to other traditionally used insulants, like EPS or Stone Wool, allowing developers/house owners to make better use of the space, adding more usable square meters to the building without sacrificing on costs. Furthermore, PU insulation contributes significantly to the reduction of energy consumption in new and existing buildings, being a perfect solution for reducing the energy bills.

Can Polycarbonate Sheets be used in both new construction and retrofits?

Yes, polycarbonate sheets can be used in new buildings and also in renovation projects. The freedom of color and dimension offers a lot of options.

What are the benefits of using Polycarbonate Sheets in terms of design flexibility?

Color, form and degree of translucency can be combined with additional functions such as heat insulation or capturing daylight.

Read more articles on this topic

  • Energy-efficient and climate-neutral construction with PU insulation materials
    Case study

    PU insulation from puren

    PU insulation materials allow for the energy efficient and climate-neutral construction and renovation of buildings. Read the case study now!

  • A more sustainable high-rise building that integrates gardens into its façade.
    Story

    Embodied carbon reduction I Building the next stage of sustainability

    Reduce embodied carbon in the life cycle of buildings with PU/PIR insulation materials. Learn more now!

Explore our other essential areas:

 1 Emissions reduction based on internal LCA calculations stages A1-A3 (cradle-to-gate) according to the EN15804+A2 standard using a mass balance approach. 

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