look what we did!
Category: Athletics
Polyurethane Track Systems Help Athletes Go for the Gold
From the performance clothing athletes wear to the equipment they use, like the coating on a discus or a javelin, polyurethane is a fixture in the sport of track and field. But, did you know that in some cases, a running track itself is made possible by polyurethane? At the high school, college and professional levels, more track and field facilities are installing track systems that utilize polyurethane as a critical component in their design. The track system itself is comprised of rubber crumbs in which polyurethane is used as the binding agent that keeps it all together.
A Hospitable Surface for Runners
The repetitive motion of running can be tough on a runner’s ankles, knees and hips. While providing relative springiness for a faster run, the surface of a track system made with polyurethane can help to cushion a runner’s footstrike, helping to stave off damage to joints.
Durable in Severe Temperatures
Polyurethane is exceptionally durable in extreme weather conditions. In hot weather, the track will not become tacky or sticky as an asphalt system might. It can also endure the process of repeatedly freezing temperatures over a harsh winter without the risk of cracking or developing potholes.
Fewer Rain Cancellations?
With a track system made with polyurethane, fewer meets may be cancelled due to water or puddles on the track. Instead, polyurethane track systems allow water to pass through the surface with the water draining down to an irrigation system. The drained track leaves behind a mostly dry surface where there is little risk of injury from slippage.
Getting Colorful with Team Spirit
The days of only black or various shades of gray tracks are long gone. Today, track systems made with polyurethane are highly customizable when it comes to colors. Schools and track organizations have the ability to show team spirit, installing track surfaces decked out in the home team’s colors.
Around for Many Years to Come
With so many advantages, it is no surprise that track and field facilities are turning to track systems made with polyurethane. Such systems are becoming more prominent in the sport and may surpass the number of asphalt facilities in the years to come. With very little maintenance, a polyurethane track system could last for several decades. By some estimates, they may last as long as 30 years before they need replacing.
Related Articles
As you travel in a car, bus, or train you might not give much thought to the windows and windshields…Read more
The Annual Polyurethane Innovation Award Each year, the Center for the Polyurethanes Industry presents the Polyurethane Innovation Award. This honor…Read more
Name: Norman Su Age: 33 Title: New Business Development Manager Company: Huntsman Educational Background: B.S. Chemical Engineering, Business Minor, Cornell…Read more
Homeowners today are looking to maximize every square inch of their living space. As we find ourselves not just eating…Read more
As readers of this blog know, 3D printing has helped revolutionize the design and manufacturing of everything from housing to…Read more
Planning an outdoor adventure? Here are 10 items to be sure to bring for maximum comfort and fun, all thanks…Read more
Have you ever thought about what makes the seats, armrests, or headrests in your car so comfortable? What is keeping…Read more
3D printing with polyurethane is showing up in one of the most unlikely of places — baseball gloves. Baseball gloves…Read more
Fresh air, delicious food, good times — there’s a lot to love about picnic season. Thanks to polyurethane, you can…Read more
Name: Brandon Parks Age: 34 Title: Senior Scientist Company: Covestro Educational Background: BS Chemistry – Lebanon Valley College BS Biochemistry…Read more
Wheat is one of the most widely grown crops on the planet, and it’s no wonder why. Wheat is a…Read more
Replacing an existing roof can be expensive and time consuming, especially when the goal is to cover tens of thousands…Read more
Name: Stephen MartinAge: 33Title: Technical ManagerCompany: BASF CorporationEducational Background: B.S. in Chemistry from the University of Michigan Like many young…Read more
With fall in full swing, football season is here. As your favorite teams take to the field this autumn, you…Read more
You likely know that cornhole is a favorite pastime at backyard barbecues and tailgates. But, you might be surprised to…Read more
You’ve heard of renewable energy sources like the wind and the sun, but what about a stretchy battery powered by…Read more
When it comes to spending a leisurely summer day out on the water, polyurethane plays many important roles. For example,…Read more
From the cars we drive to the mattresses we sleep on, polyurethane touches upon multiple aspects of day-to-day living —…Read more
As a young man growing up in Mexico, Jorge Vazquez says he was always curious about the world around him…Read more
This summer, we will come together in celebration and competition to crown top athletes from around the world. As these…Read more