POLYURETHANE

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POLYURETHANE

• Materials Science MEEN-3344
• Romeo R. Barrera

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What is Polyurethane?

• A type of elastomer which is capable of
  experiencing large and reversible elastic
  deformations.
• Its amorphous, having molecular chains that are
  naturally coiled and kinked in its unstressed
  state.

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Who Invented it?

• The underlying chemistry behind polyurethane was
  first developed by Professor Dr. Otto Bayer
  (1902-1982).
• He invented the Diisocyanate Polyaddition Process
  which is the base patent in the polyurethane
  industry.

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What is the Diisocyanate Polyaddition Process ?

• Polyurethanes are formed by reacting a polyol (an
  alcohol with more than two reactive hydroxyl
  groups per molecule) with a diisocyanate or a
  polymeric isocyanate in the presence of suitable
  catalysts and additives.
• Since a multitude of different diisocyanates and
  polyols can be used to produce polyurethane, a
  broad range of polyurethanes can be manufactured
  to meet the requirements for specific
  applications.

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The Forms of Polyurethane
FLEXIBLE Solid Foams
REBOND - Foams
RIGID Resins (Table-top covers, furniture
protection, etc)
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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.
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References

• http//www.polyurethane.org
• http//www.pfa.org
• http//www.rhinolinings.com/RL/main/
• Callister, William D. Jr. Fundamentals of
  Materials Science and Engineering. 2nd Ed.