What is Polyurethane؟
Polyurethane, often abbreviated as PU, refers to a category of polymers typically produced through the reaction of an isocyanate with a polyol. Unlike other common polymers such as polyethylene and polystyrene, polyurethanes are derived from a wide range of raw materials. This chemical versatility allows polyurethanes to be used in various applications, including rigid foam, soft foam, semi-rigid foam, flexible foam, sound and thermal insulation, spray coatings, resins, and more. Approximately 67% of all polyurethane production is dedicated to foam manufacturing.
Polyurethane is an exceptional material that combines the elasticity of rubber with the hardness and durability of metal. Compared to other materials, it offers excellent functional, time-efficient, and cost-effective advantages.
Polyurethane foam is produced in a compact, cohesive, and uniform structure with a customizable thickness, depending on the amount of polyurethane used. Depending on its density, polyurethane foam provides superior mechanical, thermal, and acoustic properties compared to other products, making it a highly advantageous material.
Polyurethane materials can be applied in three main industrial methods:
- Spraying (Spray)
- Injection
- Casting (Pouring)
History of Polyurethane
Polyurethanes were first discovered in 1937 by Otto Bayer in Germany. Due to their unique properties, these materials rapidly advanced across various industries worldwide. The first polyurethanes were produced through the reaction of di-isocyanates. Urethanes are compounds that contain urethane bonds in their structure.
In Iran, polyurethane production began around 1976 when the first polyurethane manufacturing companies, such as Polyurethane Iran and Urethane Systems, started their operations.