Polyurethane Classification, Properties, Synthesis, and Application- A Review

Abstract

Polyurethane is a synthetic polymer with a wide range of applications due to its unique structure and properties. This review highlights the chemistry of polyurethane and its several types. Polyurethanes are classified according to their chemical structure into polyether polyurethanes and polyester polyurethanes. Polyurethanes are also classified according to their shape into flexible polyurethanes and rigid polyurethanes. These polymers are produced by the reaction of polyisocyanates and polyols, and other additives are also added during their preparation, including catalysts, chain extenders and crosslinkers, surfactants, and blowing agents. The physical and chemical properties of polyurethanes have given them numerous industrial applications, including) coatings, adhesives, sealants, plastics, automotive, medical, textiles and apparels, marine, and wood-based polyurethane composites.