PUElastomere

PUElastomere is a term used to describe a class of polyurethane elastomers engineered to combine elasticity with high wear resistance and chemical stability. Like other polyurethane elastomers, PUElastomeres are formed from a polymer reaction between polyols (such as polyether or polyester polyols), diisocyanates, and chain extenders, which creates a crosslinked or segmented network that yields a flexible, resilient material. Variants are differentiated by their polyol and diisocyanate choices, with polyether-based grades offering better hydrolytic resistance and low-temperature performance, and polyester-based grades typically delivering higher tensile strength and abrasion resistance, albeit with reduced hydrolytic stability.

Properties and processing characteristics of PUElastomeres include good elongation, high resilience, and low compression set, along with strong wear resistance and broad operating temperature ranges. They also exhibit useful damping properties and chemical resistance, which can be tuned through formulation. UV stability can be improved with aliphatic diisocyanates, making certain grades more durable in outdoor or light-exposed environments.

Manufacturing methods for PUElastomeres encompass conventional polyurethane processing techniques such as reaction injection molding (RIM), casting of prepolymers, and other solvent- or melt-processing routes. Post-curing is commonly employed to achieve final mechanical properties and aging performance. Processing cautions include sensitivity to moisture during synthesis and handling of isocyanates, as well as cost and end-of-life considerations.

Applications span automotive seals and gaskets, vibration dampers, hoses and hoses fittings, industrial wear parts, and various medical devices when biocompatible grades are used.