What is the difference between polyester-based TPU and polyether-based TPU?
Release time:
2022-03-15
Author:
Goncord Oil
Thermosetting polyurethane elastomer materials are collectively referred to as TPU, also known as thermoplastic PU. They are linear block copolymers composed of a soft segment derived from oligomeric polyether polyols and a hard segment formed by diisocyanates and chain extenders.
Thermosetting polyurethane elastomer materials are collectively referred to as TPU, also known as thermoplastic PU. They are linear block copolymers composed of a soft segment derived from oligomeric polyether polyols and a hard segment formed by diisocyanates and chain extenders.
The molecular structure of TPU contains –NH–COO– groups, and many of its properties depend on the type of long-chain diol. Its compressive strength can be tuned by adjusting the proportion of hard segments, while its aging resistance can be enhanced through the addition of light stabilizers. Furthermore, these characteristics are also influenced by whether the acrylic resin is aromatic or alicyclic.
Aromatic acrylic resins are used in applications where oxidation‑induced discoloration from UV exposure is not a concern. Polyurethane industrial coatings formulated with aromatic acrylic emulsions are highly susceptible to oxidation and thus tend to degrade more readily under direct sunlight.
There are even alicyclic acrylic resins suitable for formulating light‑stabilized industrial coatings. In applications that require resistance to ultraviolet or sunlight—such as automotive clearcoats and many water‑based formulations—these resins are indispensable.
Alicyclic acrylate emulsion imparts exceptional solvent resistance and superior aging performance to polyurethane industrial coatings. With no phenyl groups, alicyclic acrylic resins ensure long-term adhesion even under harsh conditions.
Compared with alicyclic compounds, these two types of substances result in coatings with poor aging resistance (yellowing) and inferior solvent resistance—particularly poor corrosion resistance. Consequently, aromatic polybutyl acrylate esters are primarily used in interior applications (such as floor coatings and tank‑coating systems) or in paint formulations. Even as topcoats, their use in the automotive sector is steadily declining, as yellowing can degrade color and lead to coating delamination.
Polyester-based thermosetting polyurethane, when subjected to long-term, layered contact with moist soil, can be degraded by microorganisms; in contrast, polyether-based flexible polyurethane, rigid thermosetting polyurethane, and polyether-based or rigid thermosetting polyurethane are generally resistant to microbial degradation.
Keywords:
More News
Address:
No. 5 Yinggang South Road, Xishi District,Yingkou City, Liaoning Province, China.
Tel.
E-mail:
Scan to follow us.