Polyurethanes are used in all types of industries and are ubiquitous in modern life from the insulation in your home to the parts in the car that you drive. Polyurethane is also used to make shoes, skateboards, and medical supplies. Why is this material such a popular choice among manufacturers in all industries?
Let's look at what makes polyurethane so versatile, the various types you can find, and its many applications.
Versatility of Polyurethane
Because of the way that polyurethane is made, it is a versatile product that can be found in a number of unexpected objects. One of the best known uses is as a protective coating on wood. But, polyurethane is more than a protective coating in a jar. It can be molded into shapes and it can be used as a cushioning feature on cars, shoes, and furniture.
Modern urethane manufacturers are always looking for new ways to customize the product. Since manufacturers can control the softness, rigidity, flammability, or resilience of polyurethane it can be customized for a plethora of uses.
When you actually understand what polyurethane is made of, it is easier to understand why it is such a versatile material.
What is Polyurethane?
Polyurethane is a complex material that includes a polyol reacted with various catalysts or additives. With various polyols and diisocyanates, polyurethanes with slightly different structures can be used in a variety of applications.
Keep in mind:
Polyurethane is not rubber, but it is a type of plastic that can be rigid or flexible or anywhere in between.
There are two types of polyurethane, polyester, and polyether. These are both elastomers, so they have elastic properties. Both are abrasive resistant, while polyester has a sliding quality and polyether is abrasion-resistant.
Polyester resists high temperatures for long periods of time, and polyether resists changing temperatures, making it a better choice for exposure to low temperatures.
When it comes to durability, polyester is more tear-resistant, chemical-resistant, and shock-absorbing. Polyethers are better in moist or humid conditions and have better-rebounding properties.