A lack of TDI is “disturbing the supply of flexible polyurethane foam to downstream markets such as upholstered furniture and mattresses across Europe,” according to industry association Europur (Brussels; www.europur.com).

It noted that with all three of Europe’s TDI facilities out of commission for several weeks, and production having only recently started up again at low volumes, the material is being mostly imported from the US and Asia (see Plasteurope.com of 19.08.2022). “Imports do not nearly compensate for local production, many foam producers are on allocation, significantly down compared to requested volumes, and are thus struggling to supply their customers.”

The group warned that due to the overseas transportation costs, prices for TDI in Europe are significantly dearer than in the US or Asia and “are to reach the historically high levels seen in April-May 2022.”

Related: Downturn in European flexible foam demand continues

October is expected to be a very difficult month for availability of TDI as prices increase, Europur said, citing Plasteurope.com data (see Plasteurope.com of 22.09.2022).

Europur president Bart ten Brink said, “It is not the first time in recent years that all TDI production facilities in Europe are down at the same time, and this once more shows the need for the general supply chain to work to ensure better security of supply.”