What Is Polyurethane Used For?

Since its creation more than 50 years ago, polyurethane is now a major component of homes, vehicles and most consumer products. It has its beginnings in aircraft manufacturing, but it is a part of modern life.

What is polyurethane?

In 1937, Otto Bayer invented the process to manufacture polyurethanes. The term polyurethane describes any polymer composed of organic molecules joined together by carbamate (urethane) links. Chains are created by reacting one molecule with another in the presence of a catalyst, a reaction called step-growth polymerization. Polyurethane can have a wide range of textures and hardnesses. It also retains flexibility and elasticity, similar to rubber. Unlike rubber, it is much more durable. Polyurethane resists breaking and stretching, and it can remain flexible between -90 degrees and 225 degrees Fahrenheit.

Uses

When it was first created, polyurethane was used as a rigid foam in airplane wings throughout World War II. After the war, people began experimenting with different uses. Polyurethane is a ideal material anywhere that flexibility, heat resistance and durability are a concern. It has many industrial and machinery uses. Engine mounts, vehicle bushings, expansion joints, drive belts and bearings are now commonly made from polyurethane. Improvements in medical equipment and technology also owe much to the creation of polyurethane. It is used for surgical tubing, catheters, drapes, dressings, sutures and short-term bio-implants. In consumer products, it is hard to avoid. The foam padding of furniture and car seats is crated from polyurethane chains. It is utilized in insulation and sound-proofing materials, as well as surfboards, footwear and paints. It works well as a protective coating for wood, furniture and is essentially the 'glue' that holds fiberglass together.

As you can see, polyurethane is a major part of modern life. It is currently used to build tens of thousands of industrial and consumer products. Superior flexibility, durability and heat resistance make it one of the world's most versatile building materials.

Polyurethane is a major part of modern life