What is Polyurethane?
Polyurethane is one of the most widely used and versatile products in the market. It’s most likely keeping your fridge cool right now as an insulator. Polyurethane can take a vast variety of forms depending on its planned use. It could be produced as a firm and durable material; from as skateboard wheels to the tires of heavy machinery. It could also be soft and flexible in the form of a foam.
Let’s take a look at just 4 of polyurethane’s most common applications.
- Thermal Insulation
Polyurethane insulation is not only crucial for food storage, but it’s also a vital component in housing and commercial building construction. The insulation provided by polyurethane is one of the most efficient at blocking out heat during the summer and keeping warmth in during winter. Houses and buildings can save considerably on air conditioning.
- Padding
Besides foam insulation, polyurethane is also common in homes as foam padding. From plush pillows, comfortable couches, and soft, warm beds, polyurethane foam has brought wonders to human comfort. Speaking of beds, that fact that you can choose the specific firmness or softness of your mattress continues to speak volumes of polyurethane’s versatility. The next time you put your feet up on that relaxing ottoman, you’ve got polyurethane to thank.
- Coating
Another common yet seldom known use of polyurethane is in the form of a protective coating. A thin layer of polyurethane coating can prolong the life of a variety of materials while keeping them looking new. A great example is the coating used on cars to protect its paint and the body underneath from dents, scratches and the elements.
- Footwear
Polyurethane’s unique properties to be both flexible and durable lends itself especially useful for footwear, notably sports shoes. Not only does it keep shoes from becoming brittle, but polyurethane also makes shoes more comfortable yet supportive, as well as resistant to high heat and odours.
For additional information on the various applications of polyurethane, click here and for information on the types of polyurethane foams and their applications, read our blog post here.