[Chemical Knowledge]：Properties, uses, upstream and downstream raw materials, storage methods, polyurethane downstream products

Polyurethane Properties

Polyurethane (Polyurethane, PU) is a polymer material generated by the reaction of polyisocyanate and polyol. Its properties vary depending on the composition and can be manifested as rigid, semi-rigid or flexible foams, elastomers, thermoplastics, fibers, coatings, adhesives, etc. Its key characteristics include excellent abrasion resistance, oil resistance, chemical resistance, elasticity and good mechanical properties. Polyurethane materials also have high hardness and strength, and can maintain stable performance in the temperature range of -50°C to 150°C, suitable for various extreme environments.

USES OF POLYURETHANE

Polyurethane is widely used, covering many fields of industry and civil use. In the construction industry, polyurethane foam is widely used in thermal insulation materials; in furniture manufacturing, it is used as a filling material for sofas and mattresses; in the automotive industry, polyurethane is used as a seat filler, car body seals and shockproof pads; In the field of electronic appliances, polyurethane is used for electrical housings and insulating materials. Polyurethane elastomers are commonly used in the production of tires, conveyor belts and seals, while polyurethane coatings and adhesives play an important role in the coating and bonding process.

Polyurethane upstream and downstream raw materials

The main upstream raw materials of polyurethane are polyisocyanate and polyol. Commonly used polyisocyanates include toluene diisocyanate (TDI) and diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI), which are prepared by the steps of chlorination and sulfonation of benzene. The polyol is typically a polyether polyol or a polyester polyol made by reacting ethylene oxide or propylene oxide with a polyhydroxy compound. The downstream industry involves a wide range of manufacturers, construction companies, automobile manufacturers and electronic and electrical manufacturers. The demand of these industries determines the market direction and price fluctuation of polyurethane products.

Polyurethane storage methods

The storage of polyurethane products depends on their specific form and use. For liquid polyisocyanate and polyol raw materials, it is necessary to store them in a closed container to prevent them from absorbing moisture and chemically reacting. The storage environment should be kept dry, cool, well ventilated, and avoid direct sunlight and high temperature. Finished polyurethane foam should avoid compression storage to prevent deformation and loss of performance. Polyurethane elastomers and coatings should be stored in an appropriate temperature range to avoid contact with acid and alkali substances and volatile solvents to prevent performance degradation.

Polyurethane Market Analysis

The global polyurethane market has shown rapid growth in recent years, mainly benefiting from increased demand from downstream industries such as construction, automobiles and electronics. The Asia-Pacific region, especially China and India, is the main driver of polyurethane demand growth due to the acceleration of industrialization and urbanization. The increasingly stringent environmental regulations have also promoted the development of polyurethane products in the direction of low volatility and recyclability. The market competition is fierce. The main participants include multinational companies such as BASF, Covestro, and Huntsman. These companies continue to enhance their market competitiveness through technological innovation and strategic cooperation.

The future development trend

With the popularization of the concept of green environmental protection, the polyurethane industry is moving towards sustainable development. The application of bio-based polyols and waterborne polyurethane technology is expected to significantly reduce the environmental impact of polyurethane production and use. The development of smart materials and renewable materials will promote the application of polyurethane in emerging fields, such as smart building materials, wearable devices and high-performance composite materials. The continuous innovation of technology and the diversification of market demand will bring more development opportunities and challenges to the polyurethane industry.

Summary

Polyurethane has become an indispensable material in modern industry and daily life due to its excellent physical and chemical properties and a wide range of applications. By analyzing the properties, uses, upstream and downstream raw materials and storage methods of polyurethane, we can have a more comprehensive understanding of its market potential and development trends. Driven by green environmental protection and technological innovation, the polyurethane industry will continue to maintain its vitality and make greater breakthroughs and progress in its future development.