Polyurethanes

Published March 1966

Commercial polyurethanes are polymers that contain not only urethane groups but also a variety of other nitrogen structures, such as the urea group and the allophanate group. The polymers are further modified by various aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbon groups as well as by ester, ether, and many other chemical structures. In consequence, an almost infinite variety of polymer configurations can be built, probably making this class the most versatile of all polymers. So far no generalization of the relationship between the structure or composition of the polymer and its properties exists. Such a correlation would enable quantitative predictions of the properties that can be attained by composition changes. There have, of course, been numerous investigations in this area, and to a considerable extent qualitative effects can be anticipated. Nevertheless, there is little question that a truly general correlation between properties and structure-composition would not only greatly reduce the amount of experimental work necessary in improving polyurethanes but might also show how some of their seemingly fundamental limitations can be removed. Not surprisingly, there is now a great variety of polyurethane products offered commercially and many more will appear on the market in the future. Production processes are also numerous, and only a very few could be included within the scope of this study.

Other PEP Related Reports:

• Polyurethanes 10A
• Polyurethanes 10B
• Polyurethanes 10C
• Polyurethanes 10D