POLYURETHANEPOLYURETHANE

Materials ScienceMaterials Science

What is Polyurethane?What is Polyurethane?

A type of elastomer which is capable A type of elastomer which is capable of experiencing large and reversible of experiencing large and reversible elastic deformations.elastic deformations.

It’s amorphous, having molecular It’s amorphous, having molecular chains that are naturally coiled and chains that are naturally coiled and kinked in its unstressed state.kinked in its unstressed state.

Who Invented it?Who Invented it?

The underlying chemistry The underlying chemistry behind polyurethane was first behind polyurethane was first developed by developed by Professor Dr. Otto Bayer (1902-1982). (1902-1982).

He invented the Diisocyanate He invented the Diisocyanate Polyaddition Process which is Polyaddition Process which is the base patent in the the base patent in the polyurethane industry.polyurethane industry.

What is the Diisocyanate What is the Diisocyanate Polyaddition Process ?Polyaddition Process ?

Polyurethanes are formed by reacting a polyol Polyurethanes are formed by reacting a polyol (an alcohol with more than two reactive (an alcohol with more than two reactive hydroxyl groups per molecule) with a hydroxyl groups per molecule) with a diisocyanate or a polymeric isocyanate in the diisocyanate or a polymeric isocyanate in the presence of suitable catalysts and additives. presence of suitable catalysts and additives.

Since a multitude of different diisocyanates Since a multitude of different diisocyanates and polyols can be used to produce and polyols can be used to produce polyurethane, a polyurethane, a broad range of polyurethanes broad range of polyurethanes can be manufactured to meet the can be manufactured to meet the requirements for specific applications.requirements for specific applications.

The Forms of PolyurethaneThe Forms of Polyurethane

FLEXIBLE – Solid & Foams

REBOND - Foams

RIGID – Resins

(Table-top covers, furniture protection, etc)

Where is Polyurethane Used?Where is Polyurethane Used?Polyurethane-based binders are used in composite wood products to permanently glue organic materials into oriented strand board, medium-density fiberboard, long strand lumber, laminated veneer lumber, strawboard and particleboard.

Polyurethane-based sealants are used in joints and openings to help prevent the passage of gases, liquids, and solids (dust and dirt). Similarly, polyurethane-based adhesives are used to bond wall and ceiling panels to the structural frame, and floor joists to the sub-floor decking.

Bonded polyurethane carpet cushion which is made with re-used flexible polyurethane foam (FPF). With the ability to be recycled and its high recycle content, bonded carpet cushion creates a valuable use for a material that would otherwise require disposal.