Polymeric MDI (PMDI) has been the binder of choice for the production of OSB for more than 15 years. With a superior water resistance and reduced swelling when exposed to moisture, PMDI drove performance improvement compared to legacy binder technologies. Due to the high reactivity of isocyanates, PMDI has also helped achieve considerable gains in productivity at OSB mills, with faster production lines. Today, the use of MDI is prevalent in the core of OSB panels at mills around the world, with conversion to 100% PMDI becoming increasingly popular, particularly for premium and specialty grades.
As a major supplier to the wood industry, and a leader in innovation and optimization of the use of PMDI in engineered wood products, BASF is committed to helping OSB manufacturers make the most of their investment in PMDI technology. Our support and services to OSB manufacturers include:
- Products with a long history of reliability and successful use in OSB production.
- Enhancements to the PMDI chemistry for further gains in productivity and faster production lines.
- EHS support and technical assistance from industrial hygienists for the safe handling of PMDI.
- Access to our wood binder laboratory for process and product development.
- Dedicated equipment and fully staffed conversion team with expertise in OSB plant operations for assistance with plant conversion to PMDI, new plant start-up, or restart of facility.