Insulation industry news from Global Insulation

Finland: Stora Enso has launched NeoLigno, a bio-based binder for mineral and glass wool insulation, designed to replace formaldehyde and isocyanates. NeoLigno is produced from lignin, a byproduct from the pulp industry. Stora Enso says that it offers superior mechanical strength and performs better in humid conditions than classic binders.

Senior research and development specialist Sara Faldt said "We see no major modifications or redesigns needed in the production line for companies who wish to make the sustainable switch and implement NeoLigno."

India: Saint-Gobain India plans to double its production capacities of glass and stone wool insulation as part of a new investment phase, targeting revenues of US$4.3bn across its businesses by 2032. The Hindu newspaper has reported that this represents growth by a factor of three from 2023 levels. Saint-Gobain India noted the presence of ‘medium-sized companies in the insulation space’ as suitable targets for acquisitions. The investment phase will include total capex of US$719 – 959m from 2021 to 2025. The company had invested US$1.58bn up to the end of 2023.

Asia-Pacific and India regional CEO B Santhanam said "We have made huge investments in India, and quite a lot of them were in new plants."

Azerbaijan: President Ilham Aliyev has decreed the construction of the Hajigabul Industrial Park to boost Azerbaijani industry and stimulate economic growth. The industrial park will host an insulation plant, among other facilities.

Ireland: The government has announced that households eligible for funding under the existing Enhanced Defective Concrete Block (DCB) scheme can now also access funding for home insulation and energy improvements. The Irish Examiner newspaper has reported that grants of up to €37,550 are available for the purchase of materials including insulation.

Environment Minister Eamon Ryan said "The government wants to ensure that every household has the opportunity to take advantage of the green transition and benefit from homes that are warmer, healthier and more comfortable with lower energy bills and emissions.”

Poland: Xella has supplied its Multipor mineral wool insulation in the revitalisation of a building complex at the historic Franciszek mine shaft in Ruda Śląska, Silesian Voidodeship. Xella says that the initiative aims to transform the complex into a vibrant cultural and community space.

Ruda Śląska urban monuments conservator Łukasz Urbańczyk said "We are carrying out a full range of works there, including wall straightening, roof refurbishment and internal insulation. Multipor products were chosen to keep the brick façades intact. Once the brick façades have been cleaned, the shaft buildings will be fully restored to their former glory."