Polyurethane Industry Glossary: Your Guide to Technical Terms
Navigate the complex world of polyurethane with ease using our comprehensive glossary. We’ve compiled a list of technical terms and phrases commonly used in the industry, providing clear and concise definitions to help you understand the nuances of polyurethane production, application, and innovation.
Elastomers
An elastomer is a type of material that behaves a lot like rubber. If you stretch it or squish it, it will bounce back to its original shape once you let go. It's used in many different products because of its flexibility and durability.
Thermoplastic Elastomers
Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPEs) are a special kind of material that have the best of both worlds - they behave like rubbery elastomers, but can also be molded like plastics when heated. Just like how you can mold clay into different shapes when it's warm and soft, but it becomes hard when it cools down, TPEs can be heated and shaped into different forms, and then they become flexible like rubber when they cool down. TPEs are made by combining a rubbery material (an elastomer) with a plastic material (a thermoplastic). There are different types of TPEs, like TPE-S, TPE-U, TPE-C, TPE-O, and TPE-V. Some of these are made by linking the elastomer and thermoplastic together in a chain (these are called block copolymers), while others are made by mixing different polymers together.
Spray Foam Insulation
Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) is a cellular plastic that insulates and seals air and moisture. It is among the best ways to increase energy efficiency and improve comfort and is applied as a quick-reacting chemical mix that expands into foam, forming a continuous barrier that effectively reduces heat transfer and unwanted air infiltration. SPF comes in high- or low-pressure forms, and open- or closed-cell types, each suited to specific applications.
Pour in Place
Pour In Place foam is a unique material that you pour as a liquid into a specific space, like a cavity or mold, where it then expands and hardens. Imagine it like filling a box with a special liquid that quickly transforms into a solid foam. This foam takes the exact shape of the box, filling every nook and cranny. It's commonly used in insulation, packaging, and other applications where a custom-fit foam is beneficial. The process is quick, efficient, and the end result is a durable, insulating material that's perfectly shaped for its intended space.
Viscoelastic Foams
Viscoelastic foams, often known as memory foams, are unique materials that mold to pressure and then slowly return to their original shape once the pressure is removed. Imagine pressing your hand into a soft cushion and it leaves an imprint that gradually disappears. This property makes them ideal for applications like mattresses and cushions, where they provide comfort by distributing pressure evenly and then regain their shape when you get up.
High Resiliency
High Resiliency (HR) Foams are a type of flexible foam known for their superior support and durability. Think of how a sponge springs back quickly when you stop squeezing it - that's what HR foam does. It's designed to bounce back to its original shape after being compressed, making it more durable and longer-lasting. This makes HR foam ideal for applications like furniture cushions and mattresses, where it provides comfortable support and maintains its shape and feel even after prolonged use.
Geotechnical Foam
Geotechnical Foam is a special type of foam used in construction and engineering projects. Think of it as a lightweight, durable filler that can be pumped into the ground to stabilize soil, fill voids, or lift concrete slabs. It's like using a strong, lightweight foam to fix problems in the ground. This foam is resistant to water and decay, making it a long-lasting solution for geotechnical challenges such as soil stabilization, void filling, and concrete leveling.
Rigid
Rigid foam is a type of foam known for its firmness and insulating properties. It's often used in construction to insulate buildings because it can significantly reduce heat transfer, making buildings more energy-efficient. It's also lightweight and durable, making it a popular choice for insulation in walls, roofs, and foundations.
HFCs
HFCs, or Hydrofluorocarbons, are a type of chemical often used in foam production. They help create the bubbles that make the foam expand. However, while effective, they're known to contribute to global warming. FSI was the first to market with the solution: Ecomate Blowing Agent Technology.
MDI
MDI, or Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate, is a chemical used in the production of polyurethane foams. It reacts with other chemicals to create the foam structure. MDI is particularly used in making rigid foams, which are commonly used for insulation in buildings and appliances. It's favored for its ability to produce foams with excellent insulating properties, structural strength, and durability.
TDI
TDI, or Toluene Diisocyanate, is a chemical compound used in the production of polyurethanes, specifically flexible foams like those found in furniture and mattresses. It reacts with other chemicals to create the foam structure. While effective, TDI needs to be handled with care due to its potential health effects, and its use is subject to strict safety regulations.
