Different Types of Polyurethane

The nature of the chemistry enables polyurethanes to be used to solve challenging problems, to be molded into different shapes and to increase industrial and consumer products.

Polyurethane polymers are traditionally and most commonly formed by reacting a di- or polyisocyanate with a polyol. Both the isocyanates and polyols used to make polyurethanes contain normally two or more functional groups per molecule. Because a number of diisocyanates and a wide range of polyols can be used to produce polyurethane, a broad spectrum of materials can be produced to meet the needs of specific applications. There are quite a few Polyurethane types.

1. Flexible Polyurethane Foam

Flexible polyurethane foam is light, durable, supportive and comfortable, it is used as cushioning for numerous consumer and commercial products, including bedding, furniture, automotive interiors, carpet underlay and packaging. Flexible foam can be created in almost any variety of shapes and firmness.

2. Rigid Polyurethane Foam

Rigid polyurethane and polyisocyanurate (polyiso) foams create one of the world's most popular, energy-efficient and versatile insulations. These foams can significantly cut energy costs while making commercial and residential properties more efficient and comfortable.

Builders turn to rigid polyurethane and polyisocyanurate foam, because these foams are effective insulation materials that can be used in roof and wall insulation, insulated windows, doors and air barrier sealants. 

3. Coatings, Adhesives, Sealants and Elastomers (CASE)

The uses of polyurethanes in the coatings, adhesives, sealants and elastomers (CASE) market come with a broad and rapid trend of applications and benefits. Polyurethane coatings can improve the  appearance of products and lengthen its lifespan. Polyurethane adhesives can create strong bonding advantages, while polyurethane sealants offer tighter seals. Polyurethane elastomers can be molded into almost any shape, are lighter than metal, with the features of superior stress recovery and can be resistant to many environmental elements.

4. Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU)

Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) has a myriad of physical property combinations and processing applications. It features highly elastic, flexible and resistant to abrasion, impact and weather. TPUs can be colored or fabricated in many methods and their use can help improve the overall durability of product.

TPU can be used on extrusion, injection, blow and compression molding equipment. It can be vacuum-formed or solution-coated and is well suited for lots of fabrication methodologies. TPU can be the flexible material adaptable to plenty of uses such as construction, automotive and footwear.

5. Reaction Injection Molding (RIM)

Car bumpers, electrical housing panels and computer and telecommunication equipment enclosures are some of the parts produced with polyurethanes using reaction injection molding (RIM). Besides high strength and low weight, polyurethane RIM parts with the features of heat resistance, thermal insulation, dimensional stability and a high level of dynamic properties. The markets and applications using RIM are going to be automotive, construction, appliance, furniture and recreation and sporting goods.