What is urethane? What is the difference between urethane and polyurethane?

Polyurethane is the correct term, and urethane is often used to refer to the same item. The polyurethane chemical group is based on “NCO”, which is Nitrogen, Carbon and Oxygen. The creation of these NCO groups take place, when the polyurethane reacts and forms a solid product.

Plastic or polyurethane?

Most industrial plastics, such as polypropylene and nylon, are very hard, and they can be brittle when exposed to impingement abrasion and impact, in industrial applications. Polyurethane elastomers can be formulated with different hardnesses and chemical backbones, to optimize them to survive longer in many industrial and mining applications.

Does polyurethane last longer than plastic?

It depends on the particular application, but in many mining and industrial applications, polyurethane elastomers are the preferred product as they wear better, and perform longer, then many other industrial plastics.

Is poly-urethane a safe product?

Yes, polyurethanes are very safe. They are composed of chemicals called diisocyanates and polyols that react to form polyurethane. From there, the polyurethanes are what’s called ‘inert’ meaning they do not react with other chemicals and are safe to be around and touch.

How long does poly-urethane last?

That all depends on what it is being used for. In buildings and structures, it has an expectancy of at least 50 years. In househould appliances more than 25 years and in vehicles more than 20 years. In fact, odds are the polyurethane in the product usually outlasts the lifespan of that product’s use.

Is polyurethane fire-proof?

That all depends on the size of the product. As each product and scenario could be different. However, polyurethane can resist up to 250°F in a short-term exposure.