Originating during World War II as an alternative to rubber, polyurethane evolved from a laboratory curiosity and in to an industrial product. Combining the outstanding properties of rigid plastic, metals, and rubbers, a superior plastic was born. What sets polyurethane apart from other elastomers and steel is its resilience and overall toughness.
Urethanes are made up of diisocyanate groups, polyols, and an extender
Polyol - Ester, Ether, Caprolatones, or Carbonates
Isocyanate - MDI, TDI, NDI, PPD, or TODI
Extender - Chain extender between two isocyonates (Glycol and Amine)
The terms urethane and polyurethane can be used interchangeably. There are a wide variety of urethanes available that are similar in characteristics, but differ in specific properties.
