Polyurethanes PU are an extremely versatile family of polymers and can be divided into different categories according to their properties and specific applications.
Here is an overview of the different types of polyurethanes available:
Rigid polyurethanes: Rigid polyurethanes are characterised by a solid and rigid structure. These materials are often used to produce parts and components that require strength, rigidity and dimensional stability.
Rigid polyurethanes find application in sectors such as the automotive industry (body panels, structural components), construction (thermal insulation), electronics (protective coatings) and the furniture industry (rigid and resistant parts).
Flexible polyurethanes: Flexible polyurethanes are characterised by an elastic and flexible structure. These materials have excellent resilience, shock absorption and abrasion resistance properties.
Flexible polyurethanes are widely used in the footwear sector (soles, insoles), in the automotive sector (padding for seats and steering wheels), in the furniture sector (padding for sofas and armchairs) and in many other applications requiring comfort and flexibility.
Sound-absorbing foams: Foamed polyurethanes are used for the production of sound-absorbing foams, which have the ability to absorb sound and reduce echo. These foams are widely used in the construction industry for sound insulation in walls, ceilings and floors.
They are also used in the automotive industry to reduce noise and vibration inside vehicle interiors.
Thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU): Thermoplastic polyurethanes are polymers that combine the properties of elastomeric polyurethanes with the processability of thermoplastics. These materials can be melted and remoulded repeatedly without any significant alteration of their properties.
TPUs are used in a wide range of applications, including sports footwear, cable sheaths, hoses, elastic films, sports equipment components and more.
Expandable foams: Expandable polyurethanes are used to produce open- or closed-cell foams through the process of controlled expansion. Open-cell foams are lightweight and porous, offering high impact absorption and excellent thermal and acoustic insulation.
They find application in areas such as protective packaging, padding, mattresses and sports equipment. Closed-cell foams, on the other hand, are characterised by higher density and mechanical strength and are used for thermal insulation, seals and gaskets.
Adhesives and coatings: Polyurethanes can be formulated as adhesives and protective coatings.
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