Polyurethane raw materials from Bayer MaterialScience (BMS) are playing an important role in a project that is on a fast track … literally.
 Hayward Field at the University of Oregon is the location for next summer’s 2008 Olympic track and field trials. |
Hayward Field at the University of Oregon is the location for next summer’s 2008 Olympic track and field trials. In the fall of 2007, Beynon Sports Surfaces of Hunt Valley, MD, installed its BSS 2000 dual durometer, full-pour polyurethane track and field surface at Hayward Field. According to Beynon, which specializes in synthetic polyurethane athletic surfacing, this track is designed to be the fastest track surface in the world. It features maximum return of energy and superior shock absorption, courtesy of a bio-engineered force reduction layer of butyl rubber and full-depth color polyurethane, which allows for daily training without stress injuries. The track is finished with a custom-made surface consisting of embedded Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM) granules, which allow for advanced traction.
The track surface, which is applied over base layers of stone and asphalt, is a two-component polyurethane featuring BMS’ modified isocyanate and Acclaim® polyol. The materials are purchased through distributor D.H. Litter.
“We’re gratified that some of this country’s finest athletes will be competing on Beynon’s BSS 2000 surface, for the opportunity to compete in the Olympic games,” says Tom Petricko, marketing manager – distribution, BMS LLC.
The isocyanate utilized in this application is an aromatic isocyanate that is used in the production of a wide range of flexible, elastomeric and solid polyurethanes, as well as in adhesive and sealant formulations. Acclaim polyol is a high-performance, low-monol poyether prepared with BMS’ proprietary IMPACT® technology, using a patented organo-metallic propoxylation catalyst. It is used in polyurethane and other applications, including cast elastomers, adhesives and sealants, epoxy flexibilizers, defoamers, lubricants, crude oil de-emulsifiers and plasticizers.
Custom-Made, Custom-Paid, Custom-Fitted
Synthetic polyurethane athletic surfacing has been proven to be more durable, resilient and longer lasting than other forms of sports surfacing used for running tracks, fieldhouses and gymnasiums. Unlike competitive products like sheet rubber, which is adhered to the asphalt with glue, the polyurethane is chemically bonded to the asphalt. And because it is not supplied in sheets like other surface materials but rather is poured, it offers a seamless surface free of tripping hazards.
Yet another of the many advantages of the polyurethane formulation, which is mixed on site, is that it can be customized to the climate, as well as the needs and desires of the coaching staff ¬– for example a harder surface for sprinting, more cushioning for longer distances.
“One of the great advantages of using polyurethane is that it is not one size fits all,” explains Drew Beynon, director of business development for Beynon Sports Surfaces. “It allows us to tune the surface. Plus, it weathers like no other.”
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