The use of polyurethane coatings can protect surfaces from various harsh environmental factors, including abrasion and chemical interaction. These high-performance coatings can be used as top coats, intermediate or base layers in a variety of application areas. The versatility of these coatings make them ideal for a wide range of applications, and they offer the benefits of durability and strength.

Polyurethane coatings for chemical resistance are polymers containing urethane groups (-NH-CO-O-). They can be formed by reacting isocyanates with aliphatic or aromatic polyols and chain extenders. The structure of the isocyanate and the chain length of the polyol determines the cured polyurethane’s properties, especially its chemical resistance. For example, two-package systems based on acrylic polyols have lower chemical resistance than those based on polyester polyols.

Beyond Limits: The Superiority of Polyurethane Coatings for Unmatched Chemical Resistance

Among the many benefits of polyurethanes, their elasticity and flexibility are particularly notable. They can be molded into a wide variety of shapes, are lightweight, and have excellent stress recovery. They are also highly water-resistant and abrasion-resistant, making them perfect for use in harsh environments where corrosion or abrasion may occur.

Polyurethanes have been in wide use since World War II, when they were first developed as replacements for rubber, which was then scarce and difficult to obtain. They were used for a variety of purposes, from mustard gas-resistant garments to high-gloss airplane finishes and chemical and corrosion-resistant coatings. Today, these versatile organic polymers are used to produce rigid foams, elastomers, adhesives and coatings. Their broad applications and tunable properties make them one of the most demanded polymers in the present industry.