Introduction
If you’ve sat on a couch, laced up your running shoes, or admired a polished timber table, you’ve probably encountered polyurethane without even noticing it. It’s everywhere in modern life, yet it often goes unrecognized.
This article explores what polyurethane is, its various types, common applications, and key benefits. You’ll also learn about the pros and cons of polyurethane and get advice on choosing the best finish for wood projects.
What Is Polyurethane?
What are Polyurethane Elastomers?
To a Chemist, they are polymeric materials containing urethane groups (-NH-CO-O-) produced by the reaction of a polyol (curative) with an isocyanate (prepolymer).
To the Engineer, they are materials offering several unique properties that enable products to
be manufactured to meet a range of demanding applications.
To the Accountant, they are materials that can be processed with low energy consumption and
relatively low capital outlay for machinery to yield products that show cost savings through
improved performance.
Polyurethane Elastomers combine many of the advantages of rigid plastics, metals, and ceramics
with the extensibility of rubber. It is not claimed that Polyurethanes are the answer to all problems but they are extremely versatile and this is the key to their widespread and growing use.
There are many different types of polyurethane prepolymers, which when combined with a suitable curative, will set into a solid polyurethane elastomer. The four basic types, often referred to as the
“chemical backbone” are:
- POLYETHER / TDI
- POLYETHER / MDI
- POLYESTER / TDI
- POLYESTER / MDI
Each material type is suited to different environments and applications, so please consult us to discuss your applications further.
Polyurethane, often referred to as PU, is a type of polymer formed by reacting diisocyanates, such as TDI or MDI, with polyols. Its characteristics can differ significantly, allowing for the production of polyurethane that is either soft and flexible or strong and rigid. This flexibility is one of the major benefits of polyurethane.
Polyurethane has an interesting history. The first version was developed in the 1930s by German chemist Otto Bayer. During World War II, when natural rubber was in short supply, polyurethane served as an important substitute. That early use laid the groundwork for its widespread industrial applications, which continue to this day.
Types of Polyurethane
There are several types of polyurethane, each suited to different purposes:
- Flexible Polyurethane Foam
Found in mattresses, sofas, and car seats, it’s lightweight, soft, and resilient. - Rigid Polyurethane Foam
Famous for insulation in construction panels, refrigerators, and freezers. - Elastomers and Coatings
Durable and elastic, used in adhesives, gaskets, sealants, and heavy-duty rollers. - Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU)
A modern material that combines strength and flexibility, often used in 3D printing, medical devices, and sporting goods.
The key is selecting the type that best fits your project’s needs.
Key Uses & Applications
Polyurethane uses span a wide range of industries:
Everyday Products
- Bedding, cushions, and upholstered furniture
- Footwear such as soles, straps, and athletic gear
Insulation & Construction
- Thermal insulation for buildings
- Refrigeration and cold storage systems
Industrial & Automotive
- Protective coatings for machinery
- Adhesives and sealants for tough environments
- Car interiors, dashboards, seats, and even tires
Specialty Applications
- Medical devices such as tubing and wound dressings
- Mining equipment wear parts
- 3D printing materials, phone cases, sports equipment
It’s challenging to find another material that is utilised across so many industries.
Top 5 Benefits of Polyurethane
The benefits of polyurethane make it a versatile choice:
1. Exceptional Versatility
Polyurethane can be formulated into soft foam, rigid panels, elastomers, or coatings, making it adaptable for use in furniture, insulation, industrial parts, and even 3D printing.
2. Durability and Longevity
It resists abrasion, impact, chemicals, and extreme temperatures, ensuring that products last longer and require less maintenance.
3. Lightweight Strength
Despite its strength, polyurethane remains lightweight, a property that is crucial for applications in the automotive, construction, and portable equipment industries.
4. Energy Efficiency
Rigid polyurethane foams provide excellent insulation, helping reduce energy consumption in buildings and refrigeration systems.
5. Surface Protection
When used as a coating, sealant, or finish, polyurethane protects surfaces from wear, moisture, and damage, making it ideal for wood, metal, and machinery.
These advantages collectively explain why polyurethane uses continue to expand, from everyday household items to heavy-duty industrial applications.
Pros and Cons of Polyurethane
It’s worth weighing the pros and cons of polyurethane before making a choice.
Pros
- Long service life and dependable performance
- Strong resistance to oils, chemicals, and wear
- Highly adaptable across many industries
Cons
- Not as easy to recycle as some plastics
- Some formulations emit VOCs while curing
- Often more expensive at the outset compared to simpler alternatives
For most industrial and construction applications, the positives significantly outweigh the negatives.
Polyurethane vs. Alternatives
Compared with rubber, polyurethane is tougher and more resistant to oil. Against many plastics, it delivers greater durability. Metals are stronger, but heavier and less flexible.
For woodworking, polyurethane is often compared to polycrylic. Polyurethane stands out as the best finish for wood projects where strength and durability matter, such as flooring or tabletops. Polycrylic, on the other hand, dries quickly and maintains a clear finish, making it better suited for lighter timbers.
How to Choose the Right Type
Choosing the right polyurethane depends on your project:
- Flexible foam for comfort in bedding and seating.
- For insulation, rigid foam is ideal.
- For a balance of elasticity and toughness, elastomers are the way to go.
- For cutting-edge applications like 3D printing, TPU is the preferred option.
For wood finishes, water-based polyurethane dries quickly and stays clear, while oil-based produces a rich amber tone. Both can be considered the best finish for wood projects, depending on the look and performance you want.
Conclusion
Polyurethane has been around since the 1930s and remains one of the most versatile and widely used materials today. Its ability to be soft, rigid, or elastic makes it suitable for industries ranging from mining and construction to healthcare and furniture.
By understanding the types of polyurethane, the wide scope of polyurethane uses, and the pros and cons of polyurethane, you can make smarter, more informed decisions, whether for industrial applications or when choosing the best finish for wood projects at home.
At Australian Mining Products & Services, we provide polyurethane liners built for the toughest mining, construction, and industrial environments. For reliable, long-lasting materials, call us today at 1300 241 620. Our team is ready to help you select the right product for your project.