Chemistry in action on and around the football field
- Did you know that you can witness not only our football team in action in Germany, but also our chemistry?
Vanishing spray
Have you ever wondered about the chemistry behind the vanishing spray that referees use on the pitch before free kicks?
Today an indispensable tool, it is based on a combination of butane and surfactants. But what exactly are these surfactants? Surfactants, such as alkoxides as the ethoxylates of sorbitan monolaurate or castor oil that INEOS Oxide produces in Zwijndrecht, play a key role in the formulation of foaming agents. Ethoxylates contribute to the stability of the foam, allowing it to spread evenly and adhere effectively to the playing surface. These compounds ensure accurate positioning during free kicks without leaving permanent marks.
By the way, did you know that the yellow and red referee's cards are also made of plastic? Polypropylene – one of the raw materials being produced at INEOS O&P in Geel – for example, is used for that.
Football
Every component of a football, from the outer layer to the inside, is carefully designed and manufactured using advanced chemical techniques.
The outer layer of a football, also known as the casing, is made from polyurethane. Polyurethane results from the reaction between two components, a (di)isocyanate and a polyol - one of the products that INEOS produces at our site in Zwijndrecht. Specialty PVC, as produced at 5 INEOS Inovyn sites in Europe including Jemeppe in Belgium – can also be used.
Polyurethane and PVC are chosen for their excellent water resistance and durability. These properties mean that the ball remains lightweight and retains its shape and performance in wet weather.
Beneath the outer layer is the lining, which is essential to the structure and resilience of the ball. This lining is often made up of several layers of nylon or polyester, both of which are polymers. Nylon provides strength and elasticity, while polyester offers good shape retention and durability. These materials ensure that the ball bounces well and lasts for a long time, even after intensive use.
The core of the football, the bladder, is the part that holds the air and gives the ball its round shape. The bladder is often made of butyl rubber, a synthetic rubber known for its airtightness. Butyl rubber ensures that the ball retains its pressure for longer, which is essential for a consistent game.