Understanding Misconceptions in the Industry
Kelly Stencil & Paul DelFino
“HMI’s Commitment to Factual Internet Postings about Polyurethane”
How often do we hear “I don’t believe everything I see on the internet”? There are many good reasons for this since many less than responsible individuals and companies post inaccurate or misleading information. HMI is most sensitive to provide only factual data/information supported by science and the experience of our customers. This is true for the business opportunity of concrete lifting and leveling as well as data/information about the polyurethane foams we manufacture.
THE TREE OCTOPUS: Have you ever heard of the tree octopus? Not many people have. This tree-dwelling mollusk is really a fascinating creature! If you haven’t heard of it, take a second to google it. Your search will likely turn up a really informative website where you can learn: its scientific name, facts about its diet and habitat, why it is endangered, and you can view pictures and videos of this rare tree dwelling octopus. Check it out!
The real fact is there is no such thing as a tree octopus. It is a fictitious animal backed by a fairly believable website. It is often used to teach schoolchildren that they cannot believe everything they find on the internet. The message is: “Googling It will get you information about anything but whether the information is accurate should always be challenged.” We are not picking on the Web since the same reasonable suspicion should be considered in any media: books, newspapers, promotional ads, and now even YouTube!”
NOTHING BUT THE FACTS: – At HMI we are often asked about “facts” found online regarding polyurethane that has about as much truth to them as the tree octopus. Although we know that polyurethane is an ideal product to repair and stabilize unlevel or sunken concrete, others often work to discredit polyurethane to support alternative solutions.
The internet may lead someone to believe that polyurethane; causes cancer, will not be accepted at a landfill, and/or contains a handful of hazardous chemicals. Is this true? Even if the sources at first appear to be credible, where can the truth be found?
When internet claims get confusing, it may be time to research other sources of information. A great place to find chemical and hazard information is a product’s Safety Data Sheet or SDS. HMI provides an SDS for all of its products and now even on cured polyurethane foam. In regards to potentially cancer-causing ingredients in HMI’s products, each product’s SDS sheet will read: “No component of this product present at levels greater than or equal to 0.1% is identified as probable, possible or confirmed human carcinogen by IARC, ACGIH, or NTP.” The SDS of HMI’s cured polyurethane foam will verify that polyurethane foam is not considered hazardous waste. A phone call to your local concrete recycling company will probably confirm that concrete that has once been raised with polyurethane can still be recycled. As for the “scary” chemicals associated with HMI’s polyurethane products, (toluene diisocyanate, methylene chloride, to name a couple) – are commonly used in flexible foam, and not within the foam HMI manufactures!
TAKEAWAY – The truth is, the use of polyurethane to raise and level concrete is: safe, reliable, and cost-effective. Take care not to be influenced by stories and published facts like the Tree Octopus!
Kelly Stencil is HMI’s in house Chemist, foam and certified with the American Chemical Society
Paul DelFino is a principal of the consulting firm Opportunity Inc. For nearly two decades he has assisted entrepreneurs in growing their businesses, responding to economic downturns and merger and acquisition activity. He has consulted with HMI and RaiseRite for over a decade. His publications include “Avoiding Skewed Entrepreneurial Strategies” available from all on line booksellers
