Shoe export gradually warmed to pull polyurethane demand

Polyurethanes and silicones are widely used. Although there is a recovery in demand, the degree of prosperity is still low. The two sub-sectors are expected to see rapid growth in 2010.

As far as polyurethanes are concerned, the downstream are mainly automobiles, home appliances, textiles and footwear, and real estate. In addition to the continuing demand for home appliances, automobiles, and real estate that will continue to be stimulated in 2010, along with the gradual recovery of shoes and textile exports, its pulling effect will increase.

In the polyurethane industry, pure MDI is mainly used for the production of spandex, shoe soles, and slurries. It is expected that further recovery will occur with the gradual recovery of exports; while polymeric MDI is mainly used for the production of rigid foams for thermal insulation and other fields. Currently, due to the increase in demand for home appliances driven by rising prices, it is expected that demand in this area will remain at a relatively high level in 2010. Another area with great potential is building energy efficiency.