POLYURETHANES.

Abstract

This is a review of chemistry, synthesis, properties and processing of polyurethanes which are a broad group of polymers characterized as much by their applications and processing methods as by molecular structure. With few exceptions, polyurethanes are prepared from polyfunctional isocyanates adding to compounds which are polyfunctional in active hydrogen. The discussion is presented under headings - isocyanate chemistry; catalysis; production of polyfunctional isocyanates; coreactants (polyether and polyester polyols); polyurethane foams; polyisocyanurate foams; polyurethane coatings; urethane elastomers (including thermoplastic rubbers); safe handling and applications.