How is polyurethane manufactured?
Polyurethane is produced through a polymerisation reaction between polyols and isocyanates. Polyols are long-chain molecules with multiple hydroxyl groups, while isocyanates contain functional groups that are highly reactive.
These two main components are mixed in precise proportions, often with the addition of catalysts and other additives to control specific properties of the end product.
The process usually begins with the preparation of the polyol and isocyanate components, which are brought to the desired temperature separately in reactors. After mixing, an exothermic reaction occurs, which leads to the formation of urethane groups and shapes the plastic.
Depending on the application, the resulting polyurethane foam (also known as PUR foam) can be either rigid or flexible, with further modifications achieved through the addition of additives such as blowing agents, stabilisers and flame retardants.
Polyurethane can be produced in various forms, including injection moulding, extrusion and coating, which underlines its versatility and wide range of applications.
