Covestro continues Solar Impulse’s materials legacy with commitment to ICCT

Following the successful around-the-world flight of the solar aircraft, Solar Impulse 2, Covestro has committed to the ongoing development of clean technologies and modern materials.

The materials manufacturer is to become the first partner of the recently founded International Committee for Clean Technology (ICCT), which was established by the two founders and pilots of the Solar Impulse 2, Bertrand Piccard and André Borschberg.

The pair founded the ICCT to continue the legacy of their project, which works towards finding clean technologies for the future, as well as continue to demonstrate what is possible with modern materials and efficient processes.

“By flying around the world without a single drop of fuel, the Solar Impulse has shown what can be achieved with the help of the latest technologies available today,” said Covestro CEO, Patrick Thomas.

The company has been part of Solar Impulse from the beginning and has been a partner for the past six years. The mission would not have been possible without the high-tech materials the company provided for the ultra lightweight aircraft, including a special polyurethane foam that made the cockpit particularly lightweight and also provided optimal insulation against the heat and cold.

“We are all ecstatic to have played an essential role in this historic endeavour. Our support for the ICCT demonstrates our commitment to advances in clean technologies and to providing sustainable solutions, in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals," Thomas added. 

Starting in 2017, Covestro will serve on the board of the Solar Impulse Foundation, thus sharing responsibility for the new ICCT.