All polyol classes used in polyurethanes have a set of unique attributes that make them useful as the soft-segment in specific polyurethane elastomer applications. Selecting the best polyol for a specific formula can be the difference between making a high-quality product or one that’s low-performing. The key for proper material selection is a good understanding of the inherent characteristics of each polyol chemistry.
At Gantrade, we provide the components essential to the manufacture of polyurethane foam, a material with a broad universe of industry applications.
Polycaprolactone polyols have received significant attention as the soft segment of biodegradable and biocompatible polyurethane elastomers. There are a few key advantages formulators gain through using polycaprolactone polyols, including the ability to engineer the specified mechanical properties, processing characteristics, and degradation kinetics that are required within various applications.
Polytetramethylene Ether Glycol (PTMEG) is the premier polyether polyol used worldwide in the manufacture of high-performance polyurethane elastomers. Known for its many performance attributes and advantages, PTMEG is used in a variety of applications, including polyurethane resins, prepolymers, coatings, adhesives, cast polyurethane resins, spandex fibers, and more.
Polyurethanes have long been known to produce coatings that exhibit high toughness, abrasion resistance, enhanced aesthetics, and durability. Solvent-based polyurethanes have traditionally set the performance standard for high durability coatings. However, environmental considerations for low-VOC alternatives and reduced exposure to solvents has stimulated the development of alternative technologies based on waterborne polyurethane systems.
The rising demand for “green,” bio-sourced raw materials and intermediates originates from the concept of sustainability. In our industry, sustainability is about employing materials that are safe, efficient to use and derived from renewable resources.
Cast polyurethane elastomers based on 1,4-butanediol (BDO)-extended MDI systems using PTMEG as the soft segment are among the most useful polyurethane materials, offering cost and performance advantages. We see these elastomers used in a myriad of diverse cast urethane applications including wheels, heavy duty casters and tires for lift trucks, mowers; and all-terrain vehicles; industrial belts, wiper blades, and chute liners; pipe, hose, pump components, and tank liners used in abrasive service; mining, power, and oil-field equipment such as gaskets, valves, hydro cyclones, screens, and flotation parts; athletic shoes, boots and recreational equipment; and medical devices.
Using the broad range of unique polycaprolactone polyols available from Gantrade and Daicel Corporation, formulators can custom-tailor polyurethanes to achieve greater levels of performance. Polycaprolactone polyols in polyurethanes can enhance the capabilities of existing polyurethanes or enter new applications by displacing other material systems, such as rubber and epoxies.
Diethyl toluenediamine (DETDA), is also commonly known in the polyurethane industry by the brand names Ethacure 100, Lonza DETDA 80, and Nitroil ADA I80.
We have written in this space about different performance polyols used to achieve the desired performance of elastomers in various applications. In addition to the disocianate type, polyols offer formulators an ability to achieve a variety of processing and performance advantages.
