Polyurethane PU
Polyurethane - what is it?
Polyurethane is a synthetic material with unlimited applications. It is the result of combining two raw materials (isocyanate and polyol) obtained from crude oil. Most of the things we come into contact with every day are made from this material. Its properties include lower melting point than polyamides and lower mechanical resistance. Thanks to this, the material is used in the production of spandex fibers (lycra, elastane).
Production process
It is obtained by combining basic components such as isocyanates with polyols. To obtain the finished product, the components undergo initial processing and are then mixed under tightly controlled temperature and pressure conditions. Catalysts, stabilizers, and foaming agents are added to the mixture, allowing for a relatively low final product weight while maintaining desired mechanical properties. It is obtained as a result of a polyaddition reaction, the course of which is carefully monitored to ensure a uniform material structure. By using advanced technologies and optimizing the process, production is characterized by low cost relative to the obtained properties, making it an attractive material for many industries.
Polyurethane properties
Polyurethane stands out for a range of exceptional physicochemical properties that make it of interest in materials engineering. Primarily, it is characterized by extraordinary flexibility while maintaining high mechanical strength. The main properties of the material are: - Resistant to abrasion. - Good insulating properties. - Significant chemical resistance. - Good adhesion to various substrates. - Maintains elastic properties over a wide temperature range. - Good resistance to UV radiation and atmospheric conditions.
Applications of Polyurethane
Polyurethane is a versatile material used in many industries. In automotive, it is used for manufacturing dashboards, seats, and seals. The footwear industry utilizes it to produce soles and insoles, ensuring comfort. Due to its insulating properties, polyurethane is valued in construction as an insulating material. Its ability to easily adjust properties makes it useful in furniture production, medical equipment, and sports goods. This versatility makes polyurethane one of the most sought-after synthetic materials in industry.
Where can we find polyurethane?
There are many places where polyurethane is used, including manufacturing: - Structural elements with increased hardness. - Suspension components with increased durability. - Odorless cable thresholds covering cables and wires. - Construction works (water and sewage installations, vehicles, furniture production, building insulation, composite panels). - Household (insulation for refrigerators, mattresses). - Clothing and footwear production (shoe soles, hiking boots, flip-flops, outer coating for jackets or vests, rainwear, gloves). - Utility accessories (travel bags, thermoses, bottles). - Automotive (car parts, tires, suspension components). - Sports equipment (balls, bicycle saddles, skates, dumbbells, swim caps). - Liquid polyurethane (filling voids, insulating steel bathtubs, protecting installation pipe outlets, acoustic insulation). - Polyurethane foams (useful for installing windows or doors, thermal insulation, acoustic insulation, filling expansion joints). - Road industry. - Mining industry (vibration isolators). - Furniture industry (furniture upholstery, covering elements). High elasticity, high wear resistance, vibration damping capability, tear resistance, self-extinguishing properties, and electrical insulation are just some of the characteristics of polyurethane sheets. This modern material with a wide range of applications is also used in medicine for producing artificial organs. Wheelchairs and operating tables are examples of items made using this polymer.
PU - Material similar to plastic and ABS
Technical material like PU allows for the production of materials with increased hardness. Elements made from PU have increased longevity and chemical resistance. The material enables production in any color and in most shapes. An example of application in automotive mechanics is suspension components like polyurethane suspension bushings and control arms.
Polyurethane foams
The material can be used in the form of polyurethane foams (e.g., ecological, winter, low expansion, standard). The polymer may occur as a sheet, sheath, or liquid foam. Polyurethane in liquid form is sold in tubes and pipes. The convenient applicator included in the kit allows for precise placement of the material in voids or gaps.
Adhesives made from polyurethane
Short drying time and high adhesion are characteristic features of adhesives made from polyurethane. They are excellent for construction installation (pipes, joints), electrical work, renovation (floor moldings, frames, wall decorations).