1, Introduction
In the vast field of materials science, TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer) and PU (polyurethane) are two common polymer materials, each with unique properties and application areas. In order to gain a deeper understanding of the differences between these two materials, this article will conduct a detailed comparison and analysis from multiple dimensions.
2, Basic concepts of TPU and PU
1. Basic concepts of TPU
TPU, The full name is thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer, which is a type of (AB)? Type block linear polymer. A is a high molecular weight (1000-6000) polyester or polyether, B is a diol containing 2-12 straight chain carbon atoms, and the chemical structure between AB segments is diisocyanate. TPU is crosslinked by intermolecular hydrogen bonding or mild crosslinking between large molecular chains, and this crosslinked structure has reversibility, therefore TPU has thermoplasticity and elasticity.
2. Basic concepts of PU
PU, The full name is polyurethane, which is a polymer material formed by the condensation reaction of polyols and polyisocyanates. It has excellent mechanical properties and strong plasticity. PU has a wide range of classifications, including polyether, polyester, polyimide, polyurea, etc. It can be made into various polyurethane materials, such as polyurethane plastics, polyurethane fibers (known as spandex in China), polyurethane rubber, and elastomers.
3, Performance Comparison between TPU and PU
1. Wear resistance and elasticity
TPU has excellent wear resistance and elasticity. It has excellent wear resistance, low wear, and good elasticity, and can quickly recover to its original state under external force. Although PU also has good elasticity, it may be slightly inferior to TPU in terms of wear resistance.
2. Hardness and strength
TPU has a wide range of hardness, and products with different hardness can be obtained by changing the ratio. TPU has high mechanical strength, significant impact resistance, load-bearing capacity, cold resistance, and shock absorption performance. PU has relatively low hardness, but its tensile strength, tear strength, and flexural properties are excellent.
3. Weather resistance and temperature resistance
TPU has good weather resistance and temperature resistance, and can maintain stable performance over a wide temperature range. The weather resistance and temperature resistance of PU may be slightly inferior to TPU, especially in high-temperature environments, where the performance of PU may be affected.
4. Processing performance
TPU has good processing performance and can be molded by injection molding, extrusion, blow molding, rolling and other processing methods. This makes TPU highly flexible and efficient in the production process. The processing performance of PU is relatively poor, requiring specific processing equipment and techniques.
5. Environmental performance
TPU has good environmental performance, and waste materials can be recycled and reused. TPU has a relatively small impact on the environment during production and use. The environmental performance of PU may be slightly inferior to TPU, as PU may produce harmful substances during the production process and be difficult to degrade.
4, Application areas of TPU and PU
1. Application areas of TPU
TPU is widely used in multiple fields due to its excellent performance. In the automotive industry, TPU is used to manufacture components such as car seats, steering wheel covers, and door seals; In the field of shoe materials, TPU is used to manufacture sports soles, casual soles, etc; In the medical field, TPU is used to manufacture medical devices, medical pipelines, etc. TPU is also widely used in fields such as cables, clothing, pipes, films, and sheets.
2. Application areas of PU
PU has a wide range of applications. In the textile industry, PU fiber (spandex) is used to manufacture elastic fabrics; In the construction field, PU foam is used as thermal insulation materials; In the field of transportation, PU materials are used to manufacture tires, seals, etc. PU is also widely used in fields such as coatings, adhesives, fabric finishing agents, leather modifiers, etc.
5, The cost and price of TPU and PU
1. Cost and price considerations
The cost and price of TPU and PU are influenced by various factors, including raw material prices, production processes, product performance, etc. The cost and price of TPU may be slightly higher than PU, as TPU has superior performance and a wider range of application areas. In practical applications, it is necessary to comprehensively consider and select based on specific needs and scenarios.
