PolyCast by UT

Mary Bogdan - Solstice Advanced Materials (S01 E06)

S01 E06: The future of foam blowing agents: Insights from Mary Bogdan In this episode, Mary Bogdan, an industry expert with more than 30 US patents and a wealth of experience in foam blowing agent technology, details the transition to low GWP technologies and their impact on the polyurethane sector. We explore what has changed with the spin-off of Solstice Advanced Materials from Honeywell, the challenges faced in transitioning to greener alternatives, and what this means for the future of the industry. The PU industry has seen a significant transition from CFCs to HCFCs, HFCs, and now HFOs and other low GWP systems. Mary explains which transition has been the hardest, and how industry must focus – as regulations tighten – on efficiency and effectiveness while minimising the environmental impact. She explains why building codes are becoming stricter, and why embodied carbon and emissions are becoming a key driver. Plus, Mary explains why finding the best blowing agent is definitely a case for Lieutenant Columbo.   "What has not changed is the people, the facilities, and the products sold." "We are always looking at the next greatest material." "Efficiency and effectiveness are key factors."   #Polyurethane #FoamTechnology #BlowingAgents #LowGWP #HFO #SustainableMaterials #Insulation #ConstructionMaterials #BuildingEfficiency #EmbodiedCarbon #RegulatoryCompliance #Innovation #RAndD #SolsticeAdvancedMaterials #Urethanes #Sustainability #GreenBuilding

Martin Kruczinna - Pearl Polyurethane Systems (S01 E05)

S01 E05: In this episode, Martin Kruczinna, CEO of Pearl Group, discusses the impact of geopolitical tensions on the polyurethane industry, Pearl's strategic expansion across Asia and Africa, and the company's focus on sustainability and innovation in polyurethane solutions. Martin talks about supply chain disruptions, production sites and risk mitigation strategies, customer relationships and transparency in pricing, market dynamics, localisation and Saudi Vision 2030, growth and expansion plans, investment in Asia-Pacific, and doubling down on growth: the five-year strategy. Plus, find out why running ultra-marathons isn’t enough of an adrenaline rush for Martin! "Diversified sourcing helps mitigate risk and provides supply security." "In times of crisis, ask yourself, what's the worst that can happen?" "Never hesitate to challenge yourself and your convictions."   #polyurethane #SupplyChain #geopolitics #sustainability #expansion #podcast #MiddleEast #Asia #Europe #recycling #insulation

Audrey Silva Russo - Purcom Quimica (S01 E04)

S01 E04: Ever wondered how a childhood influence can shape a pioneering career in a male-dominated industry? 💪 Audrey Silva Russo’s journey into the polyurethane industry started with her father, a respected figure in the field. From childhood curiosity about his work to realising her own passion during college, she discovered a thriving industry full of challenges and opportunities. Surrounding herself with inspiring people has been key. As she says, "If you're surrounded by excellence, it raises your expectations and drives you to improve." Audrey now leads innovation at Purcom Química, developing sustainable solutions like bio-based polyols and chemical recycling routes. Her journey is a reminder that investing in R&D is not just about immediate results - it's about future-proofing an entire industry. What inspires you to break boundaries? #Polyurethane #WomenInSTEM #Sustainability #Innovation #PolymerScience

Steven English & Tobias Spyra - Chemical Market Analytics (S01 E03)

S01 E03: The polyurethane industry is navigating a storm of challenges: energy disruptions, political tensions, and supply chain crises. Demand has stagnated, and the market is feeling the pressure. We’ve gone from a post-Covid recovery to facing multiple crises – from rising freight costs to raw material price hikes. Every factor is interlinked, creating a complicated web that affects us all. Are producers waiting for normalcy or adapting to a new reality? The answers lie in understanding these shifts. In this episode, recorded in April 2026, Steven English and Tobias Spyra of Chemical Market Analytics by OPIS, a Dow Jones Company, offer their expert insights. #Polyurethane #MarketTrends #IndustryInsights #Polycast #GeopoliticalRisk

Alison Keane - ISPA & MRC (S01 E02)

S01 E02: How is the mattress industry balancing performance, sustainability and changing consumer expectations? In this episode, recorded in April 2026, Alison Keane of the International Sleep Products Association and the Mattress Recycling Council discusses the latest developments in US mattress recycling programmes, the policy and legislative hurdles ahead, innovation in foam and eco-friendly materials, the role of chemical recycling, and the future of polyurethane in mattresses. From customer trends and mattress lifespan to marketing, collaboration and recovery targets, this is a wide-ranging look at the forces shaping the next generation of sleep products.