Dow Polyurethane Technology Puts Carpet to Work

Dalton, GA - June 05, 2006

Today’s businesses demand commercial carpet that works as hard as they do. Polyurethane backing technology from The Dow Chemical Company (“Dow”) is designed to withstand the toughest wear and tear from corporate environments. It also creates a more productive and enjoyable workspace for employees.

Coffee spills, heavy file cabinets, high traffic, rolling chairs and carts … busy office spaces present a host of challenges that affect carpet’s appearance. ENHANCER™ Technology¹ for cushioned carpet backing or ENFORCER™ Technology for non-cushioned backing is designed to create a carpet that looks and feels great, no matter what the conditions. The unique molecular structure of polyurethane backing allows it to absorb the pounding motion of foot traffic and support the heavy weight of furniture, without bottoming out. Dow’s technology reduces carpet’s crushing and matting over time, even in high traffic areas. Plus, its strong tuft bind minimizes pilling and fuzzing as well as the likelihood of delamination, which can be a major concern in intensive use situations.

To further extend carpet’s appearance, Dow polyurethane backing technology contains a functional liquid barrier that impedes liquid and dirt from penetrating the subfloor. It also allows for aggressive maintenance programs like hot water extraction. All this adds up to a carpet that looks better longer.

While durability is a key factor in protecting carpet’s appearance, creating a beautiful flooring for the corporate market also depends on the installation process. Due to its soft, yet tough nature, Dow polyurethane backing technology allows for ease of installation. Its stretch characteristics enable variations in bow and skew to be removed, which facilitates seaming and pattern match. Dow polyurethane backing technology is suitable for virtually all carpet pattern choices, which is a key benefit for businesses that require a combination of stylish design and high performance.

Carpet backed with Dow polyurethane technology not only looks great, but also provides ergonomic advantages including improved comfort and acoustics. By absorbing the pounding motion of foot traffic, ENHANCER Technology reduces heel-strike force and leg muscle response, two major causes of standing and walking fatigue. The absorption qualities of ENHANCER Technology are extended to a room’s acoustics, which is especially important in noisy, open office plans. It serves as an effective noise reducer by minimizing the sound of foot traffic, absorbing airborne sound and reducing sound transmission to rooms below.

“From appearance and durability to performance and ergonomics, Dow polyurethane technology creates carpet that exceeds today’s corporate demands,” said Scott Lowrie, Business Manager for Dow Polyurethane Floor Coverings Group. “It’s designed to withstand even the toughest conditions and still look great for years to come.”

Dow is a diversified chemical company that harnesses the power of science and technology to improve living daily. The Company offers a broad range of innovative products and services to customers in more than 175 countries, helping them to provide everything from fresh water, food and pharmaceuticals to paints, packaging and personal care products. Built on a commitment to its principles of sustainability, Dow has annual sales of $46 billion and employs 42,000 people worldwide. References to "Dow" or the "Company" mean The Dow Chemical Company and its consolidated subsidiaries unless otherwise expressly noted.

For Editorial Information:

Janet Hansen
The Dow Chemical Company
(800) 735-3129

Shawn Zwilling
The Branding Firm, Inc.
(706) 812-1824

Lauren LeGodais
The Branding Firm, Inc.
(706) 812-1824