Urethane can be referred to as a polymer containing organic chains united by links of carbamate, formed by the reaction of polyol and isocyanate. The substance is commonly used because of its versatility. Starting from military equipment to ATM machines to car’s auto glasses, urethane can be used as an adhesive for coatings and surface sealants.
Identification
It is commonly also known as polyurethane as it is composed of ‘poly’ or multiple urethane units. It is a generic term used for any compound that has several organic compounds connected by the urethane chemical group. The structure of the polyurethane can be tweaked and twisted, however, you want just by adding other compounds that include molecules like flame retardants, pigments, and surfactants.
Types
The type of urethane that you need can be produced with the help of a few modifications in its manufacturing process. There are two types of urethane, the softer foam, and the rigid polyurethane. Both the types have different uses. The softer foam is used for soft rubbers and spandex while the rigid polyurethane is used for efficient insulation system. Both the types are equally useful in their fields.
Toxicity
There are different types of polyurethane and they are produced differently. The toxicity of these products depends upon their chemical compound structure. Few of them can be toxic to small animals and can have side effects on human beings while others biodegrade very slowly and are generally less toxic. It is hard to say in a generic term if it is toxic or not as its different types have different production process.
Manufacturing process
The chemistry of polyurethane is complex but is easy to understand. There are formed by reacting a polyol with a diisocyanate or polymeric isocyanate under the influence of a few specific catalyst or additives. Thanks to its versatility, a broad spectrum of materials can be produced to meet the specific needs.
Uses of Urethane
Urethane is a preferred alternative to plastics, rubbers, and metals, so its uses are infinite. Below mentioned are few of its important uses:
Military: Urethane is commonly used as a useful component in a lot of various applications from valve seals in submarines to tail end couplings in helicopters.
Mining: Urethane is produced as semi-conductive rollers and wheels used for separation, transportation, and milling processes in the mining industry. Urethane is perfect for use in the mining environment.
Transportation: Urethane is used in a lot of products like wheels, bumpers, gaskets, cushions and sealing components. Mainly urethanes with high dampening characteristics and high resilience properties are used in the automobile industry.
Prevent yourself from paying the car front glass price repeatedly by using urethane to attach it to the frame. It holds the framework together and prevents fatal damage during accidents.