Covestro has announced it is partnering with Chinese property developers to produce polyurethane-based solutions for wall, window, and door insulation. The Germany-based polyurethane manufacturer has forged partnerships with major Chinese property developers, including Shanghai Pudong Development (PDG Group) and Shanghai Lujiazui Group, as well as key industry collaborators. Their goal is to advance more sustainable, energy-efficient solutions in construction, capitalising on Covestro’s material expertise.
The collaboration with PDG Group will also involve Germany-based insulation integration specialist Collodin. The companies are working on a polyurethane exterior wall insulation system designed to be thinner and lighter than conventional alternatives. The system combines polyurethane insulation with low thermal conductivity and a lightweight non-combustible layer, further reinforced by composite tie bars. A study will evaluate its energy efficiency, safety, and economic viability before implementation on the developer’s future projects, provided it meets all compliance conditions.
The partnership with Lujiazui Group further involves Chinese composite profile maker Deyilong. Together, they are developing a low-carbon, energy-efficient window and door system tailored to meet Shanghai’s requirements on ultra-low energy buildings. This system will leverage Covestro’s Baydur Pultrusion, a composite material with superior thermal insulation, mechanical strength, and durability. The improved insulation allows the entire window system to be e made thinner, thereby improving its aesthetics.
“Covestro is devoted to becoming fully circular,” said Dr. Markus Steilemann, CEO of Covestro. “At the same time, we help our customers and major industries to achieve climate neutrality through our material innovations. The construction industry, particularly in China, is central to this mission. With our new partnerships we will expedite the adoption of more sustainable construction practices in China and jointly play a vital role in mitigating climate change,” he added.
The announcement was made during China International Import Expo (CIIE), where Covestro also launched a joint lab with Chinese luxury electric vehicle maker HiPhi.
The new partnership comes at a time when the Chinese property market is facing turmoil, which is slowing the country’s economic growth.