Reducing Hazardous
Air Emissions Foamex is committed to environmentally
responsible foam manufacturing. The Company has made significant
progress in the reduction of hazardous air emissions, specifically,
methylene chloride, a United States Environmental Protection Agency
Regulated Hazardous Air Pollutant (HAP).
The patented Variable Pressure Foaming (VPFSM)
Technology utilized by Foamex sets the standard in environmentally
responsible foam manufacturing. In fact, VPFSM is the most environmentally
friendly process for the manufacture of polyurethane foams worldwide.
The closed chamber reduces the need for auxiliary-blowing agents
required in traditional foam production, and maximizes our ability
to control process emissions.
VPFSM enables us to develop and produce unique, value-enhancing
products for our customers, while providing higher yields from raw
materials than traditional foaming methods. This combination of
superior product performance and reduced air emissions provides
an important technological edge for Foamex. Foamex operates four
VPFSM facilities throughout the United States.
Compared to standard foam production methods, VPFSM technology
exceeds the Clean Air Act Requirements. The most beneficial advantage
of the VPFSM manufacturing process is that the physical properties
of the polyurethane foam are controlled through the use of pressure
rather than chemicals, allowing Foamex to reduce its use of methylene
chloride.
The VPFSM method of manufacturing is beneficial to Foamex employees
at our manufacturing facilities. Minimizing methylene chloride use
reduces the possibility that Foamex employees will be exposed to
the hazardous substance. Continuous employee air monitoring provides
data to support the fact that VPFSM is contributing to a safe work
environment.
Starting in 1999, Foamex made a concerted effort to substitute
and/or eliminate methylene chloride use in our foam production process.
Over the last five years, Foamex has succeeded in reducing methylene
chloride emissions by 85%.